MOUNT CLEMENS, Mich. – Joey Mocnik came to the Metro Jets last season simply looking to make a name for himself and develop his overall game.
He did both, and then some.
Mocnik, who turns 19 on August 13, led the MJDP team in scoring with 67 points on 28 goals and 39 assists in 42 games and added another five goals and seven points in six USPHL playoff games.
The Allen Park, Mich., native is looking to build on those numbers in 2021-22 after re-signing with the Jets this week.
“It really was a no-brainer for me on returning to the Jets,” said Mocnik. “They exceeded my expectations of junior hockey by far. My motivation to get back where we were at the end of the season is through the roof. Although it didn’t end how we wanted it, we are ready to prove we are the best team in the league.
“As a returning player, I want to be that guy that everyone looks up to like I did to some of the veterans last year, setting examples and working hard on and off the ice all throughout the entirety of the season.”
Jets coach-GM Justin Quenneville was enamored with Mocnik’s offense last season and knows that is just the tip of the iceberg.
“We knew ‘Moc’ had offensive ability and skill, but you never truly know which players transition well to junior hockey,” said Quenneville. “He came out of the gates flying and never looked back. He led our program in scoring and consistently found ways to get involved offensively. Yes, he scored some big goals, but more importantly, he brought passion and energy to the lineup every night. This kid loves to score in games and in practice.
“He’s an opportunistic player, but if teams give him an inch, he will make them pay. He was big part of the national run they had last year, and we look forward to seeing him continue to evolve his game on both sides of the puck while building on last year’s experience.”
In looking back on last season, Mocnik said his numbers were the result of many individuals.
“I’d like to dedicate my improvement last year to our coaching staff,” Mocnik said. “I really feel like my hockey sense exploded and my ability to be at the right place to create scoring chances was enhanced.”
Throughout the summer, Mocnik has been working on getting his weight up in order to be a more physical player and said he will continue running and training up until camp starts next month.
