MOUNT CLEMENS, Mich. – Jacob Lawrence is quite familiar with the Metro Jets having skated for De La Salle Collegiate last season out of Mount Clemens Ice Arena, the Jets’ home rink.

This upcoming season, the 2004-born Washington Township, Mich., native will simply change locker rooms as he has signed to play for the Jets.

“I signed with the Jets because I wanted to continue my hockey career and the Jets are one of the best teams around,” said Lawrence, a forward who registered nine goals and 17 points in 23 games last season for the Pilots. “How they treat their players is a huge appeal for me and I know they have a great coaching and player staff.

“I feel I can bring a lot of grit and some skill to the team next season, and I am looking forward to getting started.”

Jets coach-GM Justin Quenneville has seen up close what Lawrence can do on the ice, and he is excited to see how his high school experience can help him transition to the USPHL.

“We are familiar with Jacob and have worked with him firsthand,” said Quenneville. “He works hard, plays the game the right way, and comes from a program with exceptional coaching at De La Salle. More importantly, he has a good head on his shoulders and is a great kid. He wants to learn and invest in himself to get more opportunities in the future. We look forward to working with him and helping him develop.”

Going forward, Lawrence has simple goals in mind.

“Short term, I want to make an impact with the Jets,” he said. “And long term, I want to do all I can to make it to the next level and play college hockey.”