Prospect Profile: Joe Snively

Joe Snively is a unique prospect for the Washington Capitals as he grew up in Northern Virginia; he developed his skills with the Washington Little Caps program and often practiced at MedStar Capitals Iceplex throughout his childhood. Last March, he earned a chance with his hometown team when the Caps signed him as an undrafted free agent to a two-year entry-level contract, which started this season. Snively is currently a crucial part of the Bear’s lineup and is profoundly contributing to the offense.

Before his college career, Snively was drafted into the United States Hockey League (USHL) in 2012 by the Sioux City Musketeers. He played three seasons, where he put up 125 points in 159 games.

Prior to the signing with the Caps, Snively attended Yale University and played hockey throughout his four years of college while majoring in political science. He played a total of 129 games while tallying 58 goals and 81 assists. He led his team in points all four years and ended up being the seventh in assists and ninth for goals on Yale’s career list. The Bulldog was also nominated for the Hobey Baker Award, which is a distinguished award for the top college hockey player. In his final season, he recorded 36 points in his last 33 games with Yale. His last NCAA game was on March 16th, 2019, yet he wanted to continue playing hockey that year. A few days later, he was added to the Bears’ roster for the rest of their season.

Due to the Caps reaching the maximum amount of signings last season, he signed a contract that started during the 2019-2020 season. This resulted in the Bears signing him to an amateur tryout agreement (ATO) in March 2019 so that he could play the remainder of the Bears’ schedule. In other words, he joined the Bears as soon as his final season with Yale concluded. Snively ensured his classes aligned with the remaining Bears’ games so that he would graduate in the spring of 2019. He made his debut with the Bears on March 30th against the Providence Bruins. He also scored his first professional goal that game, which was the game-winning goal that lifted the Bears to a 2-1 victory. The left-winger played in nine regular-season games and contributed two goals along with five assists. He also made an appearance in two Calder Cup Playoff games but did not record any points. Snively was introduced to the shift from college hockey to professional hockey in a few concluding games of the previous Bears’ season. Therefore he will be comfortable with the adjustment and can focus on producing this season.

Snively has played in 28 games with Hershey this season. He has scored seven goals and recorded five assists. He is ranked fourth on the team in number of goals and seventh for points. His notable brisk and precise shot is useful for his offensive production. His quick mind and intelligence with the puck are valuable on the ice as well. The forward also presents effectual skating and passing skills, which then positively impacts other teammates. Hershey’s first line, composed of Snively along with the center Mike Sgarbosssa and right-wing Garrett Pilon, has a secure connection, and it has been a significant piece to the Bears’ offense and success. Snively is a crucial part of the Bears’ lineup, which is clicking as the team has recently won eight straight (Statistics as of December 26th, 2019).

It may seem like Snively is receiving the opportunity since he is from the DC area, but he demonstrates plenty of abilities that can be substantial for the Caps in the time ahead. When the Caps require forward prospects, he will be able to offer future strength to the lineup in Washington. The 23-year-old finds a disadvantage with his height and weight (5’ 9’’ and 170 lbs.). However, he plans to exhibit his offensive talent that can be used in the NHL. After being snubbed from the NHL draft, he continued to pursue his professional hockey dreams, which led him to the opportunity he currently has with the Bears. There is still plenty of development Snively must complete with the Bears, yet he may resiliently earn a spot within the NHL if he continues to prove himself in Hershey. His commitment and perseverance with the sport convey the ‘anything is possible’ message to local youth hockey and the professional leagues as well.