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When the Minnesota Gophers men's hockey team takes the ice Thursday night against North Dakota, highly anticipated freshman defenseman Tarin Smith will make his collegiate debut. Smith, one of coach Brett Larson's marquee offseason acquisitions, had been sidelined by an injury sustained late in his WHL season with the Everett Silvertips but is now cleared to play.
A native of Porcupine Plain, Saskatchewan, Canada, Smith was chosen by the Anaheim Ducks in the third round (79th overall) of the 2024 NHL Draft. He has honed his skills in the WHL, Canada's premier junior hockey league, since the 2021-22 season.
Last year, Smith served as captain of the Everett Silvertips and delivered an impressive campaign, amassing 71 points (16 goals, 55 assists) in 65 games. At 6-foot-2, the 20-year-old blueliner opted to transition to NCAA hockey, bringing high expectations to Minneapolis.
For Thursday's matchup, Smith is listed as the seventh defenseman on Minnesota's lineup sheet. As a freshman, he may need time to earn a larger role, but his potential is immense.
The Gophers and North Dakota face off at 7 p.m. CT Thursday in Minneapolis, with the series finale set for 6 p.m. Friday at 3M Arena at Mariucci.
Key Analysis
Smith's debut marks a significant moment for the Gophers, who are adding a player with proven junior success and NHL pedigree. His ability to contribute offensively from the blue line could bolster Minnesota's defensive corps as the season progresses. While he starts as the seventh defenseman, his trajectory suggests he could become a key contributor.
Originally reported by yahoo.