Jack Rathbone has a promising future ahead, marked by his dual roles as a professional hockey player and a psychology student at Harvard University, a prestigious institution. Even during the offseason, he continues his studies while training and skating in the Harvard area.
However, Rathbone remains focused on the present, concentrating on his performance with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins as they aim to secure a playoff berth in the remaining weeks of the regular season. He aims to maintain consistency in his game and contribute to the team’s potential playoff run.
Since being traded to the Penguins early in the season, Rathbone has established himself as one of their most reliable defensemen. The trade, which also involved forward Karel Plasek, provided Rathbone with a fresh start and a chance to thrive in a new environment.
Drafted by the Vancouver Canucks in 2017, Rathbone spent several seasons in their organization but saw limited NHL action. Despite appreciating his time with the Canucks, he views the trade as an opportunity for a new beginning and is excited about the change.
In his time with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, Rathbone has showcased his skills, appearing in 59 games and contributing 18 points to the team’s success. His solid performance has been instrumental in positioning the club for a playoff berth.
“He’s an exceptional skater with impressive mobility,” remarked Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins coach J.D. Forrest. “His agility on the ice is remarkable. Additionally, he possesses a powerful shot, demonstrating his offensive prowess. Throughout the season, he’s shown his competitiveness and ability to contribute offensively, scoring crucial goals for us. He’s also capable of executing high-level plays.
“At times, he may attempt to do too much on the ice, but overall, he’s been a valuable asset to our team.”
As a 24-year-old hailing from Boston, Rathbone is currently in the final year of his three-year entry-level contract and will become a restricted free agent in the upcoming offseason. While his future with the organization remains uncertain, there appears to be strong motivation for management to retain him.
However, there is an abundance of left-handed defensemen within the organization, which could impact Rathbone’s future prospects. Despite this, Rathbone remains focused on the immediate future rather than dwelling on contractual matters.
“I’m not concerned about that,” Rathbone emphasized. “I’m solely focused on the present and striving to deliver consistent performances heading into the playoffs.”
