Scouts are blowing up my inbox with some lengthy Q&A requests. I believe one should work smarter, not harder. That said, I invite all teams to check out the below information during the pre-draft process.

Tell us a little about Kool-Aid McKinstry.

Kool-Aid McKinstry looks a lot like his namesake, Kool-Aid McKinstry, a defensive back at the University of Alabama. Coincidentally, Kool-Aid the hockey player was born in Birmingham, Alabama, but moved to London when his father, an Army Sergeant Major, was re-stationed. The family enjoyed being on the far side of the pond so much that they remained there after SGM McKinstry retired. Kool-Aid picked up the sport of ice hockey while growing up in London and always planned to move back to North America in the attempt to go pro.

Why type of player is Kool-Aid?

Kool-Aid is a left-handed, speedy, sniping left wing. When you think of Kool-Aid, think of that sugary sweetness that awaits you, in the fridge, when you take a break from playing in that Summer heat. But, when you think of Kool-Aid McKinstry, think of Artemi Panarin or Johnny Hockey…but better! Kool-Aid can skate smooth and fast. He’s a 5’11, 188 bullet, flying up and down the ice. Puck handling, passing, and offensive positioning are some other strengths and areas Kool-Aid will continue to hone as he begins his SHL career.

What type of team does Kool-Aid hope to be drafted to?

Kool-Aid McKinstry just wants a chance to play. He has some delicious skills and wants the opportunity to put such on display. He understands that his SHL career will start in the SMJHL and last approximately 2-3 seasons. That said, Kool-Aid hopes to win before his time in the junior ends. Rebuilding teams are cool, but rebuilding the entire time Kool-Aid is in the junior would suck. Kool-Aid likes to win.

Any SMJHL cities or teams that Kool-Aid likes?

Kool-Aid is ultimately open to any city or team. However, he does like the idea of spending time in Canada because he knows hockey is their sport. Kool-Aid thinks the Citadelles, Raptors, and Kraken have pretty sick logos. Ultimately, looks are secondary to performance and how a team performs matters most. Kool-Aid wants a team that is LW-needy and offers the best opportunities for growth at the position and ice time.

How active will Kool-Aid be?

Kool-Aid is always as active as he needs to be. Kool-Aid comes off as very nonchalant and easy going, but the truth is, he is super competitive. Like most player, Kool-Aid is used to being the best player on the ice. He knows that doesn’t happen automatically, but he is always targeting to be the best come the close of his time at each level of the game. Kool-Aid isn’t afraid of work and is most motivated by players that are better than him.

Why should teams draft Kool-Aid McKinstry?

Why not? Newer player to North America with some intrigue. Seems like a lot of teams are loading up on centers and defensemen, but how many speedy wingers with handles are hanging around the juniors? Everybody likes Kool-Aid. Everyone should like Kool-Aid McKinstry. Imagine the marketing opportunities, the in-arena promotions.



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