he Belfast Giants started the week with an empty crease, but finish it with the Elite League’s standout goalie tandem.
Adam Keefe’s recent market activity is eye-catching, re-signing Belfast’s 2024-25 MVP Jackson Whistle and paring him with former NHL Draft selection Alexis Gravel.
While the Nottingham Panthers, Sheffield Steelers, and Cardiff Devils have each locked down their respective starters, Belfast have stacked their crease with talent.
With that in mind, let’s dive into the latest edition of Elite League Signing Grades.
Signing Grade: Jackson Whistle extends Belfast Giants stay
Jackson Whistle reached new heights last term, leading the Belfast Giants to yet another league and cup double with a spicy .926 save percentage and six shutouts.
Jackson Whistle, Belfast Giants (Image: William Cherry)
“Whis was our MVP for a reason,” explained Belfast head coach Adam Keefe.
“He’s grown into one of the top goalies in the league and is someone our whole team has confidence in. His work ethic, preparation, and compete level are exactly what we want in a Giant. Having him back is a massive piece of the puzzle for us.”
The 30-year-old’s greatest gift is his ability to steal wins.
Staying composed under pressure, Whistle has developed into one of the Elite League’s best netminders — and will battle Matthew Greenfield (Sheffield Steelers) and Jason Grande (Nottingham Panthers) for league-wide recognition.
The Kelowna-born shot-stopper plays a smart, positional style, keeping his post-to-post movements to a minimum.
It’s an A+ for Whistle and the Giants.
As well as watching Whistle protect the Giants from efforts from the slot, you can get online slots with amazing deals from PremiumCasinoBonus to help pass the time until the season begins again.
Signing Grade: Alexis Gravel completes Belfast Giants’ tandem
Alexis Gravel arrives in the Elite League with NHL Draft pedigree and an impressive record in the ECHL.
The 25-year-old, a former sixth round pick of the Chicago Blackhawks, entered the professional ranks last season, upholding a .927 save percentage through 23 appearances for the Orlando Solar Bears.
Gravel also featured twice for Adler Mannheim of the DEL, conceding four goals on 28 shots.
“Alexis is a big young goalie with a bright future,” Belfast Giants head coach Adam Keefe said of the 6-foot-4 shot-stopper.
“He has played in some very big games throughout his career and has consistently risen to the challenge. He is an extremely competitive individual who wants to win.
“Alexis had a great first year pro last season, and we think he is only going to continue to get better. We are excited to bring him to Belfast.”
Alexis Gravel, Iowa Heartlanders (Image: ECHL)
Gravel starred in junior and collegiate hockey, backstopping the Halifax Mooseheads to the Memorial Cup Finals before leading the University of Quebec-Trois-Rivieres to three consecutive national championships.
The Canadian, while lacking in professional experience, will compete with Jackson Whistle for the starter’s job in Belfast.
With his natural athleticism and ability to rise to the occasion in high-pressure games, Gravel would be nailed-on starter for most Elite League sides.
Utilising him in tandem with Whistle is another masterstroke by the Giants, who earn an A-Grade on this deal.
Read More:
- Analysis: Ross Armour adds net-front grit to Nottingham Panthers
Coventry Blaze sign defenceman Connor Russell - Brandon Whistle joins Belfast Giants from Sheffield Steelers
- Elite League Signing Grades: Ben Lake & Grant Mismash
- TraffordCity Arena: New 3,000-seat ice hockey hub set to elevate Manchester Storm
- Cardiff Devils swoop for teenage defenceman Brodie Kay
