Tanner Brown is ready for what should be his best season in the WHL. The veteran of 93 WHL games had a breakout campaign last season with 10 points in 22 games. The soon-to-be 19-year-old is looking forward to the start of the season and the added responsibilities left behind by graduated player Alex Kannok Leipert.
Player comparison
Coach Michael Dyck once compared Brown’s play to former Canuck Kevin Bieksa. Both wear their heart on their sleeves and don’t back down. His game has developed over the past few years, but the same fire Bieksa played with can still be seen in Brown’s game.
“I wouldn’t say much has changed. I can add bits and pieces to my game but I do not want to change the way I play playing in the same way with the same type of attitude, and playing tough and gritty. The only thing I want to add to my game this year is to be a bit more of a two-way player. Jump in the rush more, simple stuff like that. That will elevate my game.”
Last season
As we all know, last season was challenging for The Giants. There were no fans, limited revenue, and the team had to live in a hotel for the entire season. Despite the adversity, Brown could have a career year and become a leader on this team.
Tanner Brown with his first of the year in the #REMAXHub ? pic.twitter.com/IE0FIl8IyK
— Vancouver Giants (@WHLGiants) April 28, 2021
“It was a really crazy experience. It is something that will probably never happen again. I think it was a really positive year for myself and my team. I really enjoyed the chemistry that formed from the hotel and that the bubble brought us. It made us gel and mesh more as a team. I was really happy and thankful for the opportunity to play in the bubble.”
Training camp
This year’s training camp was a bit different than the ones in previous years. There were only two teams and a smaller number of players invited. That being said, one of the players that stood out was Brown. He made smart plays throughout the sessions and even chipped in a few goals during the Legends Cup.
“We had a smaller camp, and it made the camp better. It brought a lot of skill and fast pace right off the rip. I think that elevated our camp, and hopefully, that helps us with these next two preseason games.”
Advice for younger players
Brown knows what it is like to be a young player in the league and is ready to help out the rookies on the team. He has the most games played in a Giants uniform of anyone in the defensive group and can help settle the nerves of those ready to enter the league.
In cooperation with the @WHLGiants, we're proud to help present this year's team award winners. Up first: The 2021 Unsung Hero award winner Tanner Brown. His 10 points was 2nd by Giants defencemen this year. pic.twitter.com/RRizudxiey
— Langley Events Centre (@LangleyEvents) May 19, 2021
“It’s all about practice habits. Everything starts from practice habits. Being an older guy, I can show guys the ropes. I can help them out, answer questions they have and give them my little bits and pieces of things I have learnt and did. Just anything to help.”
Excitement for next season
After over a year and a half away from the Langley Event Centre, Brown is excited to be playing in front of the Giants faithful once again.
“I think for most other guys and me, getting back in our home arena and having a nice full barn cheer us on. That is something that every hockey player looks forward to.
A key part of the team
Brown will be relied upon to bring some offense this season and be a rock defensively. He will be a leader on this team and should have a career year in an elevated role. It should be an exciting year for number 23 as he looks to lead the Giants to the playoffs this coming season.
