The signing of defenseman Jalen Smereck by the Komets received a split reaction from fans and proved they know the former Cincinnati Cyclone and Toledo Walleye well.

Some recognized the scoring prowess of the ECHL’s leading offensive blueliner in the 2025 playoffs, scoring three goals and adding 11 assists in a run to the Kelly Cup Finals. Others saw him as the chief antagonist to Komets captain Jack Dugan and Toledo’s top heel in the Central Division Finals.

Smereck isn’t concerned about winning people over. The only thing the 28-year-old is worried about is what happens on the ice.

“That’s life,” Smereck said. “I know there’s going to be lots of good and some bad everywhere you go. I don’t worry about that too much. Fans are going to be fans. There’s going to be a lot supporting you,

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