The Pas, MB – The Northern Manitoba Blizzard are proud to announce the signing of Cross Lake, Manitoba native Jayden Blacksmith to an affiliate player (AP) contract.
Blacksmith currently suits up for the Cross Lake Islanders of the KJHL, where he has made an immediate impact offensively to open the 2026-27 season. Through his first eight games, the Cross Lake product has recorded an impressive 14 goals and six assists for 20 points, averaging 2.5 points per game.
His 14 goals in just eight contests highlight his ability to find the back of the net, while his six assists demonstrate his ability to contribute to his team’s offensive production in multiple ways.
Blacksmith is already familiar with the Blizzard organization, having skated with the team in Cross Lake during the Northern Manitoba Blizzard Impact Tour. The experience provided an opportunity for the local product to get on the ice alongside Blizzard players and build connections with the organization, making his signing a natural next step in his development.
A local talent from Cross Lake, Blacksmith’s signing represents another opportunity for a Northern Manitoba player to take a step forward in his hockey development. The Blizzard continue to look for opportunities to identify and develop talent from across the region, providing local players with a pathway to gain experience within the Manitoba Junior Hockey League (MJHL).
Through his AP contract, Blacksmith will have the opportunity to join the Blizzard when called upon, gaining valuable experience at the junior A level while continuing to develop his game with the Islanders.
The Blizzard organization is excited to welcome Blacksmith into the fold and looks forward to following his continued progress throughout the season. The Blizzard will continue their Northern Manitoba Blizzard Impact Tour on Friday when they take on the Winnipeg Blues at the Cross Lake Sports Complex at 7:00pm.
