Written By Jan Sims
KOMOKA - Call it Komoka proud. Komoka native Jacob Vandeven was recently drafted by the Boston Bruins—a highly impressive feat for the King’s player to be called up straight from Junior B. In fact, he’s the first player ever to be drafted directly from Komoka to the NHL.
“Our reaction to Jacob being selected by Boston Bruins was sheer excitement,” says Jacob’s mother Katie Power. “Everyone was very excited and supportive. We received many kind messages from family, friends, past/current teammates and coaches,” adds Power.
Jacob was selected in the fifth round of the NHL draft. The 18-year-old defenseman skated in 47 games with the Komoka Kings during the 2025-2026 season. He recorded 13 goals and 19 assists for a total of 32 points.
“Jacob was one of our top players on the ice,” says Kings President and General Manager Roop Chanderdat. “He asserted himself well in both his time as a forward and as a defenseman. His awareness on both sides of the puck led him to play both special teams and meaningful minutes,” adds Chanderdat.
The 6-foot-5, 200-pound defenseman brings a lot of strength to the game according to Chanderdat. “He’s a good skater with a good stick that plays with an edge to his game. He doesn’t shy away from physical battles and is very aware,” says Chanderdat.
Hockey has been part of Jacob’s young life for a long time. “Jacob has been playing hockey since 7 years old where he played for the Mt Brydges Cougars. He made Elgin Middlesex Canucks AAA in minor atom and played for this organization all through his minor hockey,” says Power.
Chanderdat believes Jacob is well-suited to the Bruins. “Jacob’s big frame fits the mold of what a Bruin is. They like big, physical players and he certainly fits that bill. He’s a good skater, which fits the modern game. You have to be a good skater and be mobile to succeed in the current NHL, in particular when playing defence.”
Off the ice, Jacob enjoys pickleball, rollerblading, working out and hanging out with friends and family, according to his mom. “Jacob has a younger brother that is 13 years old. He plays for the Elgin Middlesex Canucks AAA. He is very proud of his brother and loves to compete with him,” says Power.
“Off the ice, Jacob demonstrated his leadership abilities, helping guide players new to the league as one of our assistant captains,” says Chanderdat. “The Kings organization from top to bottom was very excited and very proud to see him get drafted,” adds Chanderdat.
