Former Kamloops Storm and Thompson Blazers defenseman Braden Smith has played all but one game for the Victoria Royals

By Chad Klassen

BRADEN SMITH

Former Storm Smith holding his own with Victoria in B.C. Division hub

Apr 9, 2021 | 5:56 PM

KAMLOOPS — Braden Smith came to Kamloops nearly three years to give his hockey career a shot in the arm. Originally from Valemount, Smith thought the Tournament Capital would be the best avenue to advance his career.

The defenseman had been drafted in the sixth round by Victoria Royals, but he knew he had a ways to go to crack a Western Hockey League lineup.

He played with the U16 Thompson Blazers, then the Major Midget Blazers for a little more than a season before suiting up this season for the Kamloops Storm. That experience only lasted two games with the Kootenay International Junior Hockey League season shutting down due to COVID-19.

He’s been picked up by the Royals for the B.C. Division hub, playing in five of Victoria’s six games.

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“The Storm was a help for sure, practicing those four, five days a week. Steve Gainey was an awesome coach, always helping out in areas that needed improvement, and then coming here was a big change,” said Smith. “You’re treated a little more professionally here, so you’ve got to act like a professional.”

Smith has an assist and is a minus-one through the five games. He says the speed at this next level is the biggest adjustment. “There’s men in this league. They can move their feet there are guys that have been in this league for four or five years, so it’s definitely a big difference,” he noted. “The systems, there’s lots of them and they’re changing every game. You’ve got to be dialed in and ready to go.”

Asked who his toughest assignment has been so far in the B.C. hub, he said a couple Blazers.

“Probably Logan Stankoven or Connor Zary on the Blazers. They’ve got some skill, that’s for sure.”

Smith hopes to make an impression and stick with the Royals for next season.