Jet Greaves is in the NHL.
The 20-year-old goaltender has signed a three-year, entry level contract, through the 2023-24 season with the Columbus Blue Jackets. He was called up by the Blue Jackets earlier this week.
“I was in Cleveland. My agent called and told me that talks were going on. The next thing I knew, I was on my way to Columbus. It was that quick,” Greaves said.
“To be in the NHL, it’s such a big dream for so many Canadian kids. For me and for my family, I’m so excited about this opportunity.”
Since getting the call to Columbus last weekend, Greaves is ready to hit the ice in a game.
“It’s great to be back and see all of the guys again since being in camp with them previously. It’s been an easy transition. The players and staff, everyone is so welcoming,” Greaves said.
“It’s been so awesome. I had to call my parents right away and I couldn’t wait to tell them. They’ve done so much for me. They’ve always been there. I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for them.”
Born and raised in Cambridge, Greaves attended St. Teresa of Calcutta Catholic Elementary School and St. Benedict Secondary School.
“Cambridge is home and always will be. It’s amazing to have so much support from everyone there,” Greaves said.
Greaves had his sights on playing hockey at a young age.
“My mom says it was since birth. Since I was little and watching hockey on TV, I was always drawn to the game.
“When I was about three or four, I started skating. My dad would always take me skating after school. It’s always been a part of my life.”
As for being a goalie, it wasn’t until watching one momentous game, that influenced Greaves to become the puck-stopping sensation that he is today.
“I would always watch the World Juniors at Christmas with my family and play hockey in the basement with my brother. I remember watching a game in 2007. Carey Price was the goalie, and Canada won in a shutout. After that, I knew I wanted to play goalie,” Greaves said.
He is grateful for all of the support he has received along the way.
“I played Cambridge Minor Hockey with the same guys for years. I made great friends that I still have today. I’ve had great coaches who helped me grow and develop as a player, and as a person,” Greaves said.
“I’m so thankful to my family, Cambridge Minor Hockey, and to my goalie coach, Matt Smith, who played a huge part in helping me. They have all been there every step of the way.”
Greaves was selected by Barrie 56th overall in the 2017 Ontario Hockey League Priority Selection Draft from the Cambridge Hawks. In one season of Junior B in Guelph, Greaves posted a 20-27-5 record over two seasons with the Colts.
Following his invitation to the Columbus Blue Jackets camp in 2019, Greaves signed an American Hockey League (AHL) contract with the Cleveland Monsters in July 2021, making his professional debut with the team and ECHL’s Kalamazoo Wings.
The six-foot, 170-pound goalie has a 4-6-0 record with a 3.10 goals-against average and .898 save percentage in 13 games with the Monsters, including stopping 28 of 29 shots in a 2-1 win at Utica on Feb, 12 in his most recent start.
For all young hockey players, who dream of a chance to play in the NHL, Greaves said don’t give up and just have fun.
“I know everyone says that, but it’s true. Have fun and work hard. Everything else will come,” Greaves said.
He looks forward to taking the next steps in his hockey career with the Blue Jackets.
“This is an exciting opportunity. It’s hard to get into the NHL, but it’s even harder to stay in,” Greaves said.
“So, I am going to keep working hard, develop where I can, and see where that takes me.”
