Ryan Pyette LFP
NEW GUY: Kevin Hancock
The first time Hancock stepped onto London ice, it wasn’t the most comfortable feeling in the world.
“I was 17 years old and I was really nervous coming here (as an opposing player),” the former Owen Sound Attack centre admitted. “You have 9,000 people in the stands and it feels like they’re right on top of you. It’s so loud and you don’t forget that experience.”
Those jitters are long gone.
“I’m an older guy on the team so I’ll bring my leadership on and off the ice to the younger guys,” he said. “I’ve been through a couple of playoff runs. I know what it takes when you get to Games 5, 6 and 7. We’re pushing for the Memorial Cup and I’m trying to prove myself and be everything I can be to get that (pro) contract.”
The Knights brass and coaching staff have been watching him for years – either in person or on video tape. Even in those first few viewings while he was making his way at this level, he stood out.
“We thought he was the perfect fit,” London associate GM Rob Simpson said. “Throughout this process (while they were trying to find out about him as a person), we heard a lot about character. People were saying that to us without us even asking. Back in 2016-17, we brought in players that had a lot of talent that didn’t quite mesh. Sometimes the star player with the big name doesn’t suit you. Kevin is versatile. He scores a lot on nifty shots and stuff around the net. You think it’s a fluke but he does it consistently.
“It translates well to the playoffs when you have to find different ways to score.”
Hounds still have Knights number