James Wright spent three years playing for the WHL’s Vancouver Giants, helping them to a Memorial Cup championship and 161 regular-season victories in his time there.
The 19-year-old from Saskatoon, SK, became one of the Giants’ top two-way forwards, and was a player the team could count on because of his strong defensive play, excellent skating, and his ability to chip in offensively, too.
Now, Wright is making an impression at the highest level in the NHL with the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Drafted by the Lightning in the fourth round, 117th overall, in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft, Wright made the NHL club after a strong performance at the team’s training camp in September 2009.
Although it may have surprised many to see him make the NHL club as a 19-year-old, Wright, himself, was certainly not shocked. After all, his philosophy was why even go to camp if you’re not going to try and make the team.
So far, Wright has performed admirably for the Lightning. The 6’3”, 196-lb pivot has earned a reputation as a dependable defensive player who kills penalties, takes big faceoffs, shuts down the opposition’s scoring lines, and can chip in the odd goal, too.
Although still eligible to play with the Giants even next season, Wright, it appears, has earned his permanent place in the big leagues in sunny south Florida.
CATCHING UP WITH…JAMES WRIGHT
On the start to his NHL career…
“It’s been a lot of fun, so far. It has gone by very fast, from the time I came to training camp, to my first game, to where I am now. I’ve learned a lot in a short time, and I’ve enjoyed every minute of it. I think I surprised more people than I did myself by making the team as a 19-year-old. That said, I was obviously really excited to be able to stay here, because my dream and goal, ever since I was young, was to play in the NHL. I knew that I could be here if I worked hard enough, though.”
On getting used to playing in the NHL…
“At first, it takes some getting used to. I think the big differences between the WHL and the NHL are the fact that players are bigger and stronger, and the game is played at a much faster pace. It takes a while to get used to playing at that speed, and making decision much quicker. Also, the attention to detail is very high. Coaches break down plays, and you’re always watching video and figuring out how you can improve. As a forward, you see, first-hand, how good the defensemen are at this level. They are so strong and smart, especially down low, that you really have to be on your toes. Nothing comes easy here.”
On playing with NHL stars like Vincent Lecavalier and Martin St. Louis…
“When I first got here, I was taken aback by the fact that I’m playing with guys like Vinny and Marty. You grow up watching these guys, and to be playing alongside them is amazing. The thing that stands out is how talented they are. When I was in Major Junior, I thought I had skill and talent. But when I got up here and watched up close what these guys can do with the puck, and the plays they can make, it was a humbling experience.”
On his play for the Lightning this season…
“I think I’ve managed to improve with every game I play. I know I’m up here to be a strong two-way player who is dependable on the penalty kill and plays a strong north-south game. I have focused on trying to be a reliable defensive player who is hard to play against. When I was younger, I thought I’d be a guy who plays offense, scores goals and makes plays. But, coming here, I know that’s not my job. If they wanted me to be a goal scorer, I probably wouldn’t be here now. “
On keeping up with the Giants…
“Yeah, I talk to Don every so often, and I text some of the guys pretty regularly. I try and stay in touch with the guys and keep up with how the team is doing. I’m always checking the WHL Website to see what’s going on.”
On the WHL as the world’s premiere development League…
“When I was young and deciding on where I wanted to play, I knew the WHL was the best choice for me. I don’t regret my decision one bit. The League puts an emphasis on schoolwork, so you don’t fall behind. Plus, the way the WHL is structured, with the schedule of 72 games, and the quality of the players and the coaching, it prepares you very well for moving on to the professional level. I was lucky to play in Vancouver on a very good team, and learn from a great coach like Don Hay. On a hockey level, I learned so much about the game, and how to be successful at all aspects of the game. I learned that you have to be strong defensively if you want to be successful at the next level. I would say that, if you want to get the best training and education, and prepare yourself for the next level, the WHL is definitely the League you want to play in.”
