OAK FOREST, IL - Let’s get one thing straight: defensemen don’t always get the love they deserve. They’re the unsung heroes, the backbone of every great team, the guys who do the dirty work so the forwards can grab the headlines. But every once in a while, a defenseman comes along who demands your attention. Kennelly Clinton, the Chicago Cougars’ blue-line dynamo, is that guy.
The Westmont, Illinois, native has been named the USPHL Elite Midwest Division Player of the Month for December, and let me tell you, this honor is as well-earned as a Gordie Howe hat trick. Clinton’s December was a masterclass in two-way hockey, blending defensive responsibility with offensive flair in a way that’s rare for a player his age. And he’s carried that momentum straight into 2025, proving that he’s not just a standout defenseman—he’s a game-changer.
Let’s break it down, because Kennelly Clinton isn’t just having a good season—he’s redefining what it means to be a defenseman in the USPHL.
December Dominance: The Two-Way Titan
In four games last month, Clinton racked up four assists, including a jaw-dropping three-helper performance that had Cougars fans buzzing. But here’s the thing: he wasn’t just piling up points. He was shutting down opposing forwards, breaking up plays, and transitioning the puck up the ice like a seasoned pro.
Clinton’s ability to quarterback the game from the blue line is nothing short of elite. His vision is next-level, his passing is crisp, and his ability to jump into the play at the right moment is a coach’s dream. Whether it’s a stretch pass to spring a forward on a breakaway or a subtle play to keep the puck in the offensive zone, Clinton’s hockey IQ is off the charts.
And let’s not forget the defensive side of his game. Clinton is a rock in his own end, using his size, positioning, and stick work to neutralize opposing threats. He’s the kind of defenseman who makes his goalie’s life easier, and that’s worth its weight in gold.
2025: The Hot Start Heard ‘Round the League
If you thought Clinton was going to rest on his December laurels, think again. The kid came out swinging in 2025, putting up back-to-back three-point games and eight points in his first three contests of the new year. That’s not just a hot streak—that’s a statement.
Through 29 games this season, Clinton has already set a career-high with 24 points (5 goals, 19 assists), eclipsing his previous best of 19 points in 33 games last season. He’s on pace to shatter his personal records, and he’s doing it while logging heavy minutes and playing against the other team’s top lines.
What’s even more impressive is his consistency. Night in and night out, Clinton is making an impact at both ends of the ice. He’s not just a flash-in-the-pan player; he’s the kind of guy who shows up, does the work, and lets his game do the talking.
By the Numbers: A Deeper Dive
Let’s geek out for a second, because the stats tell a story of growth, maturity, and sheer dominance.
24 points in 29 games: That’s a 0.83 points-per-game pace, up from 0.58 last season. For a defenseman, that’s elite production.
19 assists: Clinton is tied for one of the top assist totals in the league, proving he’s one of the most effective puck-moving defensemen out there.
25 PIM: He’s not afraid to mix it up, either. Clinton plays with an edge, and that physicality only adds another layer to his game.
8 points in his last 3 games: This kid is heating up at the perfect time, and the Cougars are reaping the benefits.
The Intangibles: What Makes Kennelly Clinton Special
Stats are great, but hockey is a game of heart, grit, and determination. And Clinton has all three in spades.
At just 17 years old (born in 2007, for those keeping track), Clinton is already playing with the poise and confidence of a seasoned veteran. He’s a leader on the ice, a guy who elevates his teammates and makes everyone around him better. Whether it’s winning battles in the corners, breaking up a 2-on-1, or setting up a teammate for a one-timer, Clinton does it all with a quiet intensity that commands respect.
And let’s not forget where he’s from. Westmont, Illinois, isn’t exactly a hockey hotbed, but Clinton is putting his hometown on the map. He’s proof that talent and hard work can come from anywhere, and he’s representing the 630 area code with pride.
What’s Next for Kennelly Clinton?
The sky’s the limit for this kid. With his combination of skill, vision, and work ethic, Clinton is poised to take his game to even greater heights. Whether it’s leading the Cougars on a deep playoff run, earning a spot on a higher-level team, or eventually making the jump to college hockey, one thing is clear: Kennelly Clinton is a name you’re going to want to remember.
So here’s to Kennelly Clinton, the USPHL Elite Midwest Division Player of the Month for December. He’s not just a defenseman—he’s a game-breaker, a leader, and a rising star in the hockey world. And if his recent performances are any indication, this is just the beginning.
Keep your eyes on #14, folks. The best is yet to come.
From the entire Chicago Cougars organization, congratulations Kennelly!
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