Milano announces the signing of Italian-Canadian goaltender Jacob "Jake" Smith for the 2026-27 season.
Born in Oakville, Ontario, on May 1, 1995, Smith (182 cm, 87 kg) is a left-catching goaltender appreciated for his reflexes, rebound control and consistency of performance.
Developed in the Ontario Hockey League with Brampton and the North Bay Battalion, where he spent four seasons, Smith closed his junior career with a record of 170 appearances, 90 wins, a 2.72 goals-against average and an .899 save percentage in the regular season, adding an excellent playoff résumé: 27 wins in 50 games, a 2.50 GAA and a .908 save percentage. He recorded 14 shutouts. His performances attracted the attention of the New York Rangers, with whom he attended training camp in 2015. Of Italian descent, he chose Italy as the destination to launch his professional career.
Over three seasons with Bolzano — including the historic 2018 EBEL title, now the ICE Hockey League — he made 33 appearances (plus one in the Champions Hockey League), earning his first call-ups to the Italian national team. In search of regular playing time and continued technical development, he stepped down a level to the Alps Hockey League for three seasons: across Gherdëina and Renon he consistently posted save percentages above 90%, earning himself another ICE Hockey League opportunity with Val Pusteria. In two seasons in yellow and black he established himself as a key. performer, excelling in the 2024 playoffs with a .904 save percentage in 13 appearances.
Eight seasons in total on Italian ice cemented his reputation as one of the most reliable goaltenders in the country, with a permanent place in the national team picture.
In 2024 he chose Denmark, tending goal for Esbjerg Energy in the Metal Ligaen. In the 2025-26 season he spent the first half in the ECHL with the Wheeling Nailers, posting statistics worthy of a higher level. The call back to Europe came quickly: with the Ducs d'Angers in the French Ligue Magnus he delivered another positive season, helping the club reach Game 7 of the semifinal playoff series with a .936 save percentage in the post-season. He closed the season in Azzurri colours, named to the three-goaltender roster by coach Jalonen for the Top Division World Championship in Switzerland, making one start.
Now, at the peak of his career, comes the return to the ICE Hockey League and a major opportunity for a leading role in rossoblù.
"Jake has improved year after year," says coach Shedden. "We believe he's ready to take on this great opportunity as our number one goaltender. He'll have our full confidence to express himself at his best."
