Hockey Club Lugano reports that it has signed 26-year-old Canadian forward Kris Bennett, born in Brampton, Ontario, on 06.01.1996, on a contract valid for the 2022/2023 season.
Kris Bennett ("left," 180 cm x 85 kg) can play either center or wing.
Based on agreements between the two clubs, Kris Bennett will be made available to the Ticino Rockets with the possibility of recalling him to Lugano if needed.
Kris Bennett 's career can be divided into three phases.
Between 2012 and 2017 he played mostly in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), playing a total of 204 games with an offensive haul of 114 points (57 goals, 57 assists) in a Saginaw Spirit jersey.
Between 2017 and 2020 he was among the stars of the Usports University Championship where, in University of New Brunswick colors, he won the title twice and on one occasion the University Cup with a total of 105 games and 130 points (55 goals, 75 assists).
After 20 or so games in the AHL, last season he was the most goal-scoring player (35 goals in 50 games) in the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) where he was captain and draftee (50 games, 73 points) of the Iowa Heartlanders.
These are the words of GM Hnat Domenichelli:
"Kris is an interesting young man who can score many goals. The Ticino Rockets must become a team capable of qualifying for the playoffs to increase their level of competitiveness and help our prospects grow and develop. Kris will be able to play an important role in achieving this goal and will be available to Lugano throughout the season in case of injuries. We wish him a very warm welcome!"