6th year defenseman Matt MacKenzie(44) seems to be growing into his game with each passing season.
He started 2016/2017 under contract with Florida Everblades but was loaned up to Springfield Thunderbirds a month in and recently signed an AHL contract to stay with the team for the remainder of the current calendar.
The former Buffalo Sabres‘ 3rd round pick in the 2010 draft (#83 overall) started 2015/2016 much the same way as this year, under an ECHL deal with Manchester Monarchs but was loaned up to Portland Pirates late and stuck through one round of Calder Cup Playoffs.
He notched a pair of assists in 4 postseason matchups.
The 6’1″ 190 lbs. blue liner recorded two 30+ assists’ seasons in juniors and also won the 2010 WHL Championship as a third year player with Calgary Hitmen.
He also contributed a hefty 6 goals and 10 assists through 23 games to that title.
The 25-year old should be able to earn a spot out of training camp at the higher level of hockey in 2017/2018 but may also turn his sights elsewhere to continue elevating his game.