Alex Jefferies

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