McKinlay Back To Bolster Kings’ Blueline
Jim McKinlay playing with the Lambton Shores Predators – Photo by Dan Hickling (@danhickling1)
McKinlay, who played for the Kings from 2010-2012, spent all of last season, and the first 17 games this year with the GOJHL’s Lambton Shores Predators. In 56 Junior B games with Lambton Shores, McKinlay had 1 goal and 11 assists, along with 49 penalty minutes. McKinlay was serving as an assistant captain with the Predators this season.
The 6’3″ Morpeth resident joins a King team that is struggling to keep the puck out of their net, and sits second last in the Great Lakes Junior C hockey league.
McKinlay rejoins a relatively green defensive corps, which is highlighted by rookie Dede Cato, who leads all Dresden defenders in scoring with 6 goals and 8 assists through 21 games. Also on the Dresden blueline, is Chatham resident Jay Piett, and second year defenseman Wade Esslement. Jeff Vanrabaeys is the only other Kings defender with significant experience in the league, but the savvy veteran has missed a half dozen games this year.
McKinlay will have a chance to make an immediate impact as the Kings host Mooretown Friday, travel to Amherstburg Sunday, and play Wheatley on the road Monday.