While he’ll probably never skate onto the ice as a member of the Utah Hockey Club, Cal Clutterbuck will always be one of my all-time favorite players. Clutterbuck, known for his longevity with the New York Islanders, has never put up a lot of points, but he’s been responsible for being a consistent force on the lower lines. In Salt Lake City, Jack McBain could play the same role.
McBain is, however, a sneaky, productive player on the lower lines, scoring 12 goals and 26 points in 2022-23 before he came back and put up eight goals and 26 points last season. While he didn’t score as often, his shooting percentage slightly increased, and through his first two seasons in the NHL, it sits at a respectable 14.2 percent.
But McBain’s scoring prowess likely won’t be recognized, as he’s not meant to be part of Utah’s top-six. Instead, he’s someone who will intimidate opponents with his 6’3, 201 lb frame and will land between 200 and 300-plus body checks per season.
Jack McBain is the lower-liner the Utah Hockey Club should want long-term
When the NHL Playoffs roll around, few players whose styles resemble Jack McBain’s grow more valuable. Bruisers help win championships, so even if a playoff appearance isn’t likely for Utah this season, McBain will be a force when they eventually break through in 2026 or soon after.
Another fun fact regarding McBain is that he’s often been on the ice when the Arizona Coyotes of last year scored, with an on-ice shooting percentage of 12.1 at even strength. He’s someone who will often help ensure the puck remains in the offensive zone, evidenced by his 49.1 Corsi For Percentage at even strength, which sits roughly the same as his offensive zone starting percentage.
McBain has also given Arizona a presence while the team was short-handed, and it’s something we can expect him to carry over to Salt Lake City. Last season, while the Coyotes were at 4-on-5, McBain was only on the ice for 14 goals allowed throughout 67 contests, a number that sat at just 35 while at even strength.
As with other players like Kevin Stenlund, McBain’s value won’t come on the scoring sheet, but instead, by the way the team produces while he’s on the ice. If McBain continues to improve in what will be his third full NHL season, watch out because he will give Utah serviceable play offensively while providing a strong overall presence.