Kevin Gravel Bio
Kevin Gravel (born March 6, 1992) is an American professional ice hockey defenceman who is currently playing for the Milwaukee Admirals in the American Hockey League (AHL) while under contract to the Nashville Predators of the National Hockey League (NHL). He was selected by the Los Angeles Kings in the fifth round (148th overall) of the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. Gravel has established himself as a reliable defenseman throughout his career, showcasing his skills at various levels of professional hockey.
Early Life and Background
Kevin Gravel was born in Kingsford, Michigan, United States. Growing up in a region with a rich hockey culture, he was exposed to the sport at a young age. Gravel’s early involvement in hockey included playing for local teams, which laid the foundation for his future career. He later committed to play for St. Cloud State University, which is notable for its strong hockey program, furthering his development as a player.
Path to Hockey
Gravel began his junior hockey career with the Marquette Rangers in the North American Hockey League, where he honed his skills before moving on to the Sioux City Musketeers in the United States Hockey League for the 2009–10 season. His performance earned him a spot in the USHL All-Star Game and participation in the World Junior A Challenge. After his junior career, he played four seasons for the St. Cloud State University Huskies, where he was recognized for his academic and athletic achievements, including being named to the All-WCHA Academic Team in 2012 and 2013.
Kevin Gravel Career
Early Career (2014–2015)
After completing his college career, Kevin Gravel signed an amateur try-out contract with the Manchester Monarchs of the AHL for the 2013–14 season. He continued with the Monarchs, officially signing a one-year AHL contract on August 4, 2014. In his first full professional season, Gravel played a key role in helping the Monarchs win their first Calder Cup Championship. His performance established him as a dependable defenseman within the organization.
Breakthrough (2016–2018)
Gravel’s breakthrough came during the 2015–16 season when he was signed to a two-year entry-level contract by the Los Angeles Kings. He began the season with the Ontario Reign, the Kings’ AHL affiliate, before receiving his first NHL recall on February 11, 2016. Gravel made his NHL debut and recorded his first NHL goal on February 23, 2017, against the Boston Bruins. This marked a significant milestone in his career, showcasing his ability to compete at the highest level.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, Kevin Gravel has played for several teams, including the Los Angeles Kings, Edmonton Oilers, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Calgary Flames. He has faced challenges, including a diagnosis of Crohn’s disease, which impacted his training and weight. Despite these obstacles, he has continued to perform at a high level, demonstrating resilience and determination.
Kevin Gravel Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Kevin Gravel has not received any major award nominations, but his contributions to his teams have been recognized by coaches and teammates.
Kevin Gravel Awards Won
Kevin Gravel has not won any major awards during his professional hockey career, but he played a significant role in the Manchester Monarchs’ Calder Cup Championship in 2015.
Kevin Gravel Family
There is limited public information available regarding Kevin Gravel’s family background. Details about his parents and siblings have not been disclosed.
Personal Life
Kevin Gravel’s personal life remains largely private. He is known to focus on his professional career and has not publicly shared information about relationships or children.