The Clippers are in a stretch of playing on two games in 30 days. They're using the time to bring six new players up to speed on team systems and strategies. (Image Credit: Damon James/Island Images Photography)

By Dan Marshall

Integrating the Newcomers

Clippers use down time to build chemistry for second half

Jan 17, 2026 | 8:25 AM

NANAIMO — The Clippers have been several roster changes in January, in fact they’ve made more roster adjustments than they’ve played games.

There are a total of six players on the team currently who weren’t a part of the club in the middle of December.

Integration has been made easier because Nanaimo only has two games in a span stretching 30 days between Dec 21 and Jan 20, with new defenceman Blake Jones saying he’s felt very much at home in Nanaimo so far.

“I think it’s great. With me and other guys it gives us more time to get to know the guys on the team, break in the equipment, and get our feet under us as we get ready for the games coming up. We’re at the rink every day…getting to know guys away from the rink is just as or even more important as getting to know guys at the rink.”

Jones has appeared in only one game so far and registered two assists.

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Miller Kay is expected to make his Clipper debut on Jan. 21.

Kay is enjoying some consistent practice time as he adjusts to new teammates.

“I think the number one thing is building chemistry. That can be going out for a bite after practice or just hanging around at the rink. When you have a family sense with your team you almost want to play harder and go the extra mile to support your brothers on the team.”

Kay said the group has been practicing hard and getting a lot of gym workouts in.

He’s getting used to the Clippers’ systems and feels he can help the club as either a winger or a centre.

Jones is well aware Nanaimo has recently lost captain Nathan Larioza to the USHL and he feels he can help fill part of the leadership void.

“I take great pride in leadership. I wore the ‘C’ in New Jersey so I think I can bring a sense of leadership to the team and be a big part of that.”

Landon Pappas, Charles Beland and Hayden Fechner made the trip to Alberta to represent the Clippers for the BCHL All-Star Game and College Prospects Game.

The rest of the team is preparing for a three-game road trip to Chilliwack, Langley and Coquitlam on Jan 21, 23 and 24.

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