Alex Jefferies

July 2024 – Alex Jefferies finished his college career in 2023-24, where he posted more than a point-per-game average for Merrimack. In only 22 games played for Merrimack this past season, Jefferies led the team in goals with 13 and added 10 assists for 23 points. After his NCAA season, Jefferies signed his first professional contract with the Islanders – which holds a cap hit of $867,500 (USD) per year. Jumping into the line-up with Bridgeport, he made an immediate impact, recording a point in his first professional game and seven points, four goals, and three assists in 12 professional appearances. Jefferies is only 22 and will look to break out in his first full season of pro hockey. He is likely a year or more removed from an NHL position, but his development in the last few seasons has been good. Should he make the NHL, he projects to be a middle-six forward with some fantasy upside. William Langstaff

July 2023 – Jefferies completed a breakout season with Merrimack last year as he averaged over a point-per-game. He was nominated as a 2022-23 NCAA Hockey East first-team all-star and was named a finalist for NCAA Hockey East’s Player of the Year. James Iacovone

March 2022 – On the surface, Jefferies’ numbers haven’t progressed from what he posted as an NCAA freshman at Merrimack College near Boston. In 32 games he has nine goals and 13 assists, not much different than four goals and six assists in 12 games the previous season. The 20-year-old’s offensive skill could still change all that. Mark Allan

July 2021 – His above-average skating, vision and playmaking skills make him a prospect worth watching, but he needs to play more than 12 games per season to develop. Mark Allan

April 2021 – His 12-game, 10-point freshman campaign must be considered a success, although the pandemic-shortened NCAA season didn’t help his development as much as it might have. Mark Allan

February 2021 – The 19-year-old is off to a hot start in his first NCAA schedule with four goals and 10 points in 11 games with Merrimack College. Mark Allan

October 2020 – The sparkling playmaker registered better than a goal and two points per game in 32 games with The Gunnery, a Connecticut squad in the U.S. High School prep league. His best assets are strong skating and eye-opening passing. That sounds like Matt Barzal’s playing style, although Jefferies will have to prove himself against stronger competition, particularly as a goal-scorer. He’s expected to take that next step in Massachusetts for Merrimack College of the NCAA after he honored his commitment to the Warriors by declining a full scholarship from prestigious Boston College. That hints at loyalty and potential leadership qualities. An intelligent player, he’s always aware of his defensive responsibilities. His blueline teammates appreciate his support. The Islanders will have to be patient, but they could end up with a useful middle-six contributor. Mark Allan