Grant Clitsome

Defenseman, Winnipeg Jets, #24

From Gloucester Ontario, Grant Clitsome was born on April 14^th, 1985.   He was drafted 271^st overall by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the 2004 NHL Entry Draft. Clitsome then committed to playing in the ECAC with Clarkson University for four years. During his rookie season in the collegiate league he led all Clarkson defensemen in scoring with 13 points.  During his second season he served as the Golden Knights’ top blueliner on the team’s Power Play.  He continued to thrive in the league and his efforts and talent did not go unnoticed. In 2008 he made his pro debut with the Syracuse Crunch where he registered 19 points in his first season and 20 points in his second.  He was called up to the NHL on March 2^nd, 2010 providing two assists for the Blue Jackets and earning the game’s third star.  He scored his first NHL goal three weeks later and ended up finishing the season with the Blue Jackets.  In February 2012 Clitsome was put on waivers and was claimed by the Winnipeg Jets where he now serves as a top puck-moving defenseman. Grant is excellent at moving the puck. While he is known for his offensive prowess, Clitsome is also very solid defensively. He is also efficient in one-on-one situations, mainly because of his willingness to get physical and the fact that he is a fierce competitor.  Not too mention that he is also blessed with great passing skills and a wicked slapshot.