JANESVILLE, WI – The Janesville Jets have acquired defenseman John Prokop from the USHL Omaha Lancers, per the player movement agreement between the NAHL and the USHL.
Prokop will skate his first game tonight in Springfield wearing #14.
“John’s an unbelievable skater and immediately adds mobility and depth to our blue line,” said head coach Corey Leivermann.
Prokop, a Wausau native, committed to Miami University in August. Former Jets Conor Lemirande, Grant Hutton, and Zach LaValle have combined for 330 games with the RedHawks, whose future also includes current Jets forward Justin Engelkes.
“There’s obviously a reason John has a Division I commitment, and a reason he skated in the Top Prospects game,” Leivermann said, referencing this month’s USHL/NHL Top Prospects game. “He’s a great young player with an extremely bright future and we’re excited to help him tap further into his potential.”
Prokop skated in 24 games with the Lancers this season, his first in junior hockey, and registered four assists. With the Jets, Leivermann sees Prokop’s role expanding.
“He’s gonna play some big minutes for us,” said Leivermann. “John can play in all situations. He’ll help us on the power play, on the penalty kill, and at even strength. We feel like we’ve got eight strong defensemen we can send over the boards to compete every night in this league.”
Fans can tune in to watch Prokop and the Jets battle the Springfield Jr. Blues on HockeyTV.com, featuring Jets play-by-play broadcaster Calvin Bush on the mic. Puck drops at 6:05pm CST.
