Because he was drafted out of the USHL, Roslovic can spend the 2016-17 season with either the Jets, Manitoba Moose or the Memorial Cup-champion London Knights, who traded for his rights in June.
The Columbus native, who played with the Midget AAA Blue Jackets growing up, is coming off a strong showing at Development Camp and attracted most of the attention all week, in particular because of a four-point night in the annual Blue/White game, marching his team to a 6-5 win.
"It went really well," Roslovic said of the experience. "It being my second year, that made a world of difference. I felt a lot more comfortable and a lot better with not only my teammates and the staff, but with the city as a whole. That's very important, to feel comfortable around everyone that you surround yourself with at work every day.
"It was a great experience and I loved it. There's a good atmosphere in Winnipeg; I'm very fortunate."
The 6-foot-1, 185-pound centre had 10 goals and 26 points in 36 games for the RedHawks last year, tying 21-year-old junior - and Chicago Blackhawks prospect - Anthony Louis for the team lead in scoring.
Best of all, he was able to enjoy another year in his home state, where he's become an ambassador for the game.
"It means a lot. I think that kids around the city see guys like myself, Connor Murphy, Kole Sherwood and Cole Cassels take a big step in their craft and get a chance to play in the NHL and sign NHL contracts. They see that and say, 'Hey, I am in the right spot, and it doesn't matter if I'm in Columbus, Ohio, or a big hockey market like Chicago.'
"It's growing here."
Before joining the RedHawks, Roslovic spent two years with the United States National Development Program, finishing the 2014-15 season with 79 points (27G, 52A) in 65 games.
- Ryan Dittrick, WinnipegJets.com
