McPhee embracing his opportunity with the Belleville Sens

For forward Graham McPhee, a chance to return to the Belleville Senators organization was at the forefront of his free agency wish list. His aspirations were well received, and he earned a one-year American Hockey League contract extension with the franchise early this summer.

“When I had the opportunity to re-sign and come back. I didn’t hesitate,” he said. “I have zero complaints about everything regarding the team, the staff and how I was treated. Everything was fantastic. I’m really looking forward to this season and happy with the way things have gone.”

Although his initial stint in the Friendly City last season was relatively brief, McPhee thoroughly immersed himself in the community after he was acquired in March from the Bakersfield Condors.

“I was traded at the end of the season, with about five or six weeks left,” he said. “I was excited about the move, the opportunity, and that’s exactly what I got from Belleville.”

“It’s hard to step into a new team when the season is going, but I was welcomed with open arms, and everyone was super friendly and welcoming. So it makes that transition that much more smooth.”

With an increased role throughout the stretch drive, the native of Bethesda, Maryland made an immediate impression on management with his diligent and honest style of play.

“I take a lot of pride and being a competitive character guy, whether in the locker room or in a tight game,” McPhee said. “I’m always going to put my neck on the line for the guys next to me and be a competitive, hard-working teammate willing to push guys and push myself and help achieve a bigger goal for everyone.”

He concluded his campaign having registered six points (one goal, five assists) and 54 penalty minutes in 41 appearances.

While McPhee is ultimately pleased with his results and surroundings. He is also incredibly excited to return to action. The 25-year-old has been able to work out at full strength this offseason in Minnesota, which has unfortunately been a rarity as he has dealt with a litany of minor injuries throughout his career.

“This is the first time I’ve been healthy going into a season, and for me, that’s important,” he said. “This summer, I’ve been able to train and focus on working in the weight room and fine-tuning my game without having to rehab. I’m looking forward to starting the season with a healthy body and a good mindset.”

More notably, McPhee and his family are highly invested in helping make a positive impact in the Bay of Quinte Region, emphasizing the importance of education.

“Anything I can do in any community where I play is important to me,” he said. “I visited a school in Belleville, which was awesome, connecting with kids and the school community. I remember being that age and seeing a professional hockey player I looked up to. It is so important to set goals and have role models.”

“Belleville was great for my wife and me in the short time that we were there. We’re both really excited to be back in the community and to be able to give in any way that we can.”

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