A defenseman in the Anaheim Ducks' prospect system has committed to Minnesota for next year.
Tarin Smith has committed to the University of Minnesota for the 2026-27 season, according to a post on his Instagram. The 20-year-old defenseman just finished his third full season with the Everett Silvertips of the WHL, where he was also the captain. He ended the year with 16 goals and 55 assists for 71 points.
“I’m excited to announce my commitment to the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers for the 2026–27 season,” Smith wrote in his announcement post. “I want to thank everyone in Everett—my teammates, coaches, staff, and fans—for four incredible seasons and for helping me grow both on and off the ice. I’m grateful for everything along the way and can’t wait to get started on this next chapter.”
Smith is a crafty defender who was drafted in the third round by the Anaheim Ducks in the 2024 NHL Draft. The Porcupine Plain, Saskatchewan native jumpstarted his career with the U18 AAA Saskatoon Blazers during the 2021-22 season, where he recorded 34 points in 43 games and 66 penalty minutes. He lost his 2022-23 season to shoulder surgery, but roared back for 8 goals and 36 assists in his draft year. He’s a big player at 6-foot-2, but is known for his creativity and played a big role for Everett, averaging 23 minutes a night.
Smith is a big addition to new Golden Gophers head coach Brett Larson’s recruiting class, which includes players like Colorado Avalanche draft pick Christian Humphreys and Calgary Flames third-rounder Mace’o Phillips.