Tarin Smith interview

Robee Aquino

ANAHEIM, Calif. -- As the Anaheim Ducks continue their reputation for producing standout defensive prospects, Tarin Smith leads the next wave.

Drafted in the third round of the 2024 NHL Entry Draft, Smith is off to a strong start with the Western Hockey League's (WHL) Everett Silvertips, tallying 20 points in 15 games, leading all WHL defensemen in points.

Smith's early season success earned him Canadian Hockey League Team of the Month honors for September and October.

EDITOR'S NOTE: Interview conducted via phone call on October 31, 2024.

TST: You grew up in Saskatchewan. Can you tell us about that and how it shaped you?

Smith: "I was born in a small town in Saskatchewan called Porcupine Plains. We grew up farming. My grandparents and my dad own a farm so I was involved from a young age—out in the field, on the tractor, stuff like that."

TST: Do you think farming influenced your work ethic?

Smith: "100%. Seeing how hard my dad worked year-round on the farm was a huge motivator. It teaches you hard work from a young age."

TST: Did anyone in your family play hockey and inspire you to start playing?

Smith: "Yeah. My dad and grandpa both played. My dad made an outdoor rink every year on the farm so I grew up playing with him for hours out there."

TST: You were drafted by the Ducks in the 3rd round. Can you walk us through the draft process? Did you expect to go to the Ducks?

Smith: "I felt like I went in the range I expected. I’d talked to the Ducks a bit before the draft but they weren’t particularly on my radar. It’s pretty amazing to end up with such a great organization."

TST: Did any pre-draft questions from teams catch you off guard?

Smith: "Not too much. Some questions were challenging like asking me how I’d make a player with over 1200 NHL games better—pretty tough to answer."

Robee Aquino

TST: For those who haven’t seen you play, how would you describe your style on the ice?

Smith: "I’d say I’m a playmaking defenseman who looks to move the puck. One of my biggest strengths is my poise with the puck—I look for smart plays and contribute offensively."

TST: You're leading all WHL defensemen in points this season. How does it feel, and what do you think has contributed to that success?

Smith: "It’s amazing. My team in Everett has been a big part of it, along with the work I put in during the off-season. I came in feeling stronger and more confident which has made a difference."

NOTE: Tarin Smith is following in the footsteps of former Everett Silvertips teammate and current Ducks defenseman Olen Zellweger, who led the WHL in points for defenseman in 2021-2022. Current Ducks defensemen Pavel Mintyukov (Ontario Hockey League) and Tristian Luneau (Quebec Major Junior Hockey League) also led their respective leagues in points among defenseman during the 2022-23 season.

TST: Are there specific areas of your game you’re focusing on improving?

Smith: "Definitely getting more physical and working on gap control and defending against the rush. Those are big areas for me to be NHL-ready."

TST: Is there an NHL player you try to model your game after or learn from?

Smith: "I watched a lot of Morgan Rielly and see some similarities in our styles. I also admire Mikhail Sergachev and try to pick up things from his game."

TST: What are some personal goals for the near future?

Smith: "Winning here in Everett is a big goal. For myself, I’m focused on getting stronger and developing an NHL-ready play style."

TST: Do you have any connections within the Ducks organization?

Smith: "I played with Owen Zellweger in Everett and even (lodged) with him for a while. Living with him gave me a firsthand look at his strict routine and it taught me a lot about what it takes to be a pro."

TST: Can you share a bit about your game-day routine?

Smith: "I follow the same routine each game day—same food, same nap times. It helps me feel focused and ready for puck drop."

TST: How was development camp in Southern California?

Smith: "It was incredible meeting everyone in the organization and getting a feel for how things work at the NHL level. I even had a one-on-one shooting session with Ryan Getzlaf, which was surreal."

Rapid-Fire Questions

TST: Growing up, did you have a favorite team or player?

Smith: "I was a big Oilers fan. I watched Drew Doughty closely—I'd sit with my dad and study his game."

TST: What’s your go-to pregame meal?

Smith: "Chicken Alfredo, every game day."

TST: Do you have a nickname?

Smith: "Most people just call me Smitty."

TST: What's your favorite music right now?

Smith: "Big country fan—Zach Bryan and Morgan Wallen. I’ve been playing 28 by Zach Bryan a lot lately."