ECHL: Florida Everblades Sign Defenseman Kurtis Henry

The Florida Everblades have secured a promising defenceman in Kurtis Henry, a 24-year-old Canadian born on April 14, 2000, in Niagara Falls, Ontario. Standing 6‑foot‑2 and weighing 203 pounds, with a left‑handed shot, Henry brings both physical presence and a keen sense for the game—a combination that makes him a valuable addition to the team’s blue line.

Junior Career

Henry’s hockey journey began with the Erie Otters in the OHL, where he laid the foundation for his game. In the 2017–18 season, he played 44 games, recording one goal and six assists for seven points while accumulating 69 penalty minutes and finishing with a negative 14 rating. His performance improved in the 2018–19 season over 68 games, as he tallied six goals and 15 assists to reach 21 points, along with 70 penalty minutes. The 2019–20 season further showcased his progress in 62 games, where Henry contributed eight goals and 11 assists for 19 points, and posted 71 penalty minutes.

Collegiate Career

Transitioning to college hockey, Henry elevated his performance with the University of Prince Edward Island. In the 2021–22 season, he played 20 regular season games, recording one goal and five assists (six points), along with 56 penalty minutes and an impressive plus seven rating. Although his two‑game playoff stint that year did not yield any points, it provided valuable experience in high‑pressure situations. In the 2022–23 season, over 30 regular season games he recorded four goals and 12 assists (16 points), with 40 penalty minutes and a plus four rating; in the playoffs, he added one assist over a three‑game run while maintaining a plus four rating. The 2023–24 campaign saw Henry notch five goals and 20 assists in 29 games—totaling 25 points with 70 penalty minutes—plus an assist in two playoff games.

Most recently, during the 2024–25 season, he played 27 regular season games and recorded three goals alongside an impressive 23 assists for 26 points, even as he logged 100 penalty minutes, followed by a two‑game playoff appearance.

Fitting into the Everblades’ Defensive Corps

With a roster that values both skill and versatility, Henry’s playmaking and puck‑moving abilities will be a key asset to the Everblades’ defense. His experience from junior and collegiate hockey has honed a unique blend of offensive instincts and defensive responsibility—a trait that stands out in today’s modern game. Henry’s ability to generate assists, as demonstrated by his 23 assists in his most recent season, will allow him to support the team’s transition game and link play effectively with the forwards.

Context of the Signing

This signing comes on the heels of a recent roster move, as the Florida Everblades loaned defenceman Jordan Sambrook to the Henderson Silver Knights (AHL). Sambrook led the Everblades’ defense with six goals, 19 assists, and 25 points. With Sambrook’s departure, acquiring Henry is particularly timely, as his proven ability to contribute offensively from the blue line is expected to bolster the team’s defensive depth.

Looking Ahead

As Henry integrates into the defensive lineup, his blend of offensive savvy, defensive rigor, and adaptability is poised to help the team as they head into the last few months of the season. His arrival not only offsets the impact of Sambrook’s recall but also adds to their blue line, setting the stage for a promising professional career with the Florida Everblades.