Ottawa, ON – The Ottawa Jr. Senators are pleased to announce the signing of 17-year-old defenceman Alex Pineau, who spent last season with the U18 Thunder Bay Kings of the North American Prospects Hockey League.
The 6’1, 181 lbs Thunder Bay, Ontario native notched eight goals and five assists for 11 points in 24 games.
“I chose to play for OJS because I felt like it is the ideal place for me to grow as a hockey player, said Pineau. In talking to players who have played in the CCHL, they speak highly of the league, the OJS organization and also the leadership skills of Coach Dagenais. This is the ideal spot for me.”
The Sudbury Wolves 8th round pick in the 2019 OHL draft was also given the opportunity to make his junior hockey debut last season, suiting up for the SIJHL’s Thunder Bay North Stars. He credits his father for always being able to push him to take that next step on the ice.
“My father has coached me at different levels and always pushes me to work hard in order to get better, said Pineau. I’ve been very fortunate to have had other excellent coaches throughout my hockey career. Each with different philosophies that have helped me improve in different ways.”
Pineau, who was also drafted by the USHL’s Lincoln Stars, will be the youngest defenceman on the team for the upcoming season as the Jr. Senators defense core loses all but one rearguard to NCAA programs this year.
“I see myself as a solid two-way, puck moving defenseman, added Pineau. “I will bring physicality to the Junior Senators, as well as the ability to contribute offensively.”
Although he’ll be one of the youngest defenceman in the CCHL, Pineau is looking to make a splash on the blueline, both on the team and in the league, as he tries to make it to the next level.
“I’m going to come to Ottawa and help bring the CCHL championship back to the OJS,” stated Pineau. My long-term goal is to see how far hockey can take me and play at the highest possible level.”
