You know him on the ice. Will Smith owns the top shelf, makes plays, and showed he belonged his rookie year. But behind the highlight reels and stats is a kid figuring out life in the NHL. But, what kind of player is he wanting to become? And what’s on his agenda when he’s not dangling defenders?
When asked what he hopes to be known for when all is said and done, he didn’t hesitate.
“I want to be a winner, and someone that can be on the ice in a big moment,” said Smith.
But for Smith, it’s not just about the goals and the spotlight. It’s about the people next to him on the bench. His teammates.
“Being a great teammate, someone guys want to play with, make other guys better when you are on the ice with them, but also off the ice just being a great guy,” Smith continued.
Being in the spotlight comes with its routine of interviews, repeated questions, and bright lights after tough games. For Smith, it’s all part of the territory he’s in.
“It’s our dream to be here, it’s a part of it. Sometimes it sucks, but most of it is fun. And just trying to answer questions to my best ability,” said Smith.
Even when the same questions pop up, he takes it in stride. Another part of the job he’s learning to handle like a pro.
Fans haven’t been shy about showing love, either, and those moments stick with him.
“When people say they are so happy you came to San Jose, it’s pretty cool,” said Smith.
Every gesture means something.
“I’ve got a bunch of gifts, like some cool stuff, like bracelets, a whole song, and a picture of me and Mack. Even when they send letters, just reading those is nice,” said Smith.
And while Smith is the Fresh Prince of San Jose, he is also a 20-year-old just navigating through life. And in life, our moments to ourselves are what matter, and he spends them right.
“I like music, sitting outside, going to coffee shops, and just relaxing,” said Smith.
For now, it’s all about building, learning, and soaking up every lesson the league throws his way. The wins will come, the big moments will grow, and so will the stories that make him more than just a name on the back of a jersey. Between the goals, the fans, and quiet afternoons at a coffee shop, Smith is making out exactly the kind of career and reputation he set out for.
