Rookie Defenceman Benett Kelly Shines for Prince Albert Raiders

Prince Albert Raiders defenceman Benett Kelly has quickly established himself as a key player in the Western Hockey League (WHL). Following an impressive performance in a recent match, Kelly credited both his teammates and valuable advice from his father for his successful start to the season.

In a decisive victory against the Lethbridge Hurricanes on December 13, 2023, where the Raiders won 5-1, Kelly showcased his skills by scoring a goal and contributing to the team’s overall performance. During the game, forward Maddix McCagherty assisted by passing the puck back to the blue line, allowing Kelly to unleash a powerful shot that found the back of the net.

Family Legacy and Fatherly Advice

Kelly’s father, Steve Kelly, is a former WHL player who recorded 254 points during his time with the Raiders from 1992 to 1996. Steve Kelly’s professional career extended into the NHL, where he played for several teams, including Edmonton, Tampa Bay, New Jersey, Los Angeles, and Minnesota. Benett acknowledges the influence of his father’s experience, particularly regarding shooting techniques.

“My dad’s big on me for shooting the puck,” Benett said after the game. “He knows I can get ahold of one if I really want to.” As a rookie, the 6’2″, 190-pound player from Cochrane, Alberta has embraced this advice, aiming to increase his offensive contributions on the ice.

This season, Kelly has participated in every game except one, tallying three goals and eight assists over the course of 32 games. His ability to score from the point has made him a valuable asset to the Raiders’ defensive lineup.

Team Dynamics and Personal Innovations

While Kelly often attributes his success to his father’s guidance and his teammates’ efforts, he also mentioned an unusual choice in equipment that may be contributing to his performance. Most of the Raiders have opted for green sticks this season, while Kelly stands out with a yellow stick.

“I might have to stick around with the yellow for a few more games, see how it works,” he remarked lightheartedly. “But, I’ve got a few green ones back here I might have to go back to if the other ones stop working as they are.”

The Raiders are scheduled to face the Swift Current Broncos on December 27, 2023, continuing their season with a match on December 29. Both games will begin at 19:00 local time. As the season progresses, Benett Kelly’s blend of familial support, teamwork, and personal flair may well lead to further success on the ice.