Wolves announce 2026-27 leadership team
GREATER SUDBURY, ON – The Sudbury Wolves have officially announced their leadership group for the 2026/27 season. Blake Clayton has been named captain of the Wolves, while Rowan Henderson, JC Lemieux, and Jan Chovan will serve as alternate captains. The four leaders will guide the Wolves both on and off the ice throughout the upcoming season.
(C) Blake Clayton: Clayton is entering his third season with the Sudbury Wolves! The Burlington, Ontario native has been a staple of the Wolves’ lineup over the past two seasons, establishing himself as a reliable and hard-working two-way forward. Last season, Clayton embraced a strong defensive role while continuing to contribute offensively. He regularly matched up against the opposition’s top lines and took on challenging assignments, showcasing his ability to make an impact at both ends of the ice. In 68 games, Clayton recorded nine goals and 19 assists for 28 points. Clayton elevated his game during the postseason, showcasing his compete level, determination, and willingness to do whatever it took to help the Wolves succeed. In four playoff games, Clayton recorded three points, including one goal and two assists.
(A) Rowan Henderson: Henderson is entering his third season with the Sudbury Wolves! The high-energy forward was named an alternate captain last season, further highlighting his leadership both on and off the ice. The Wellesley, Ontario native leads by example and has established himself as a key contributor for the Wolves. Last season, Henderson recorded 12 goals and 20 assists for 32 points in 68 games. A strong two-way forward, Henderson takes pride in his defensive responsibilities while continuing to contribute offensively. Alongside Blake Clayton, Henderson regularly takes on the opposition’s toughest matchups, embracing challenging assignments and competing hard at both ends of the ice. In four playoff games last season, Henderson recorded one goal and one assist for two points.
(A) JC Lemieux: Lemieux joined the Sudbury Wolves late last season following a blockbuster trade with the Windsor Spitfires. The Gatineau, Quebec native quickly made an impact after arriving in Sudbury, bringing a strong combination of skill, physicality, and hockey IQ to the Wolves’ lineup. Lemieux appeared in 23 games with the Wolves last season, recording 10 goals and 15 assists for 25 points. A high-IQ forward, Lemieux has a strong understanding of the game and consistently puts himself in the right position to create scoring opportunities. His ability to read the ice, find open space, and finish around the net makes him a dangerous offensive threat. Lemieux also brings a physical edge to his game and is not afraid to battle in the corners or use his body to make plays. His willingness to compete for pucks and play a physical style makes him a difficult opponent to play against. In four playoff games last season, Lemieux continued to contribute offensively, recording two goals and one assist for three points.
(A) Jan Chovan: Chovan, the Bratislava, Slovakia native, is ready to don the “A” in his second season with the Wolves. Jan Chovan was selected by the Los Angeles Kings in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. Last season, Chovan led the Wolves in scoring, recording 28 goals and 27 assists for 55 points in 60 games. After an impressive first season in North America, Chovan is poised for a breakout campaign in Sudbury. A dynamic offensive talent with an elite finishing touch and a dangerous shot, Chovan will be a key piece for the Wolves’ this season.
