Tanner Pearson, a Canadian professional ice hockey player, began his NHL career with the Los Angeles Kings. Drafted 30th overall in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft, Pearson quickly became known for his offensive skills and ability to perform under pressure. His journey to the NHL was not typical; he was passed over in two previous drafts before the Kings recognized his potential.
Pearson's NHL debut came during the 2013-2014 season. He played a crucial role in the Kings' playoff run that year, contributing to their Stanley Cup victory. His performance in the playoffs, particularly his chemistry with linemates Jeff Carter and Tyler Toffoli, earned the trio the nickname "That 70s Line," a nod to their jersey numbers. Pearson's ability to score timely goals and his strong two-way play were instrumental in the Kings' success.
Over the next few seasons, Pearson continued to develop his game with the Kings. He became a reliable forward, known for his scoring touch and defensive responsibilities. In the 2016-2017 season, he achieved a career-high 24 goals and 44 points, solidifying his role as a top-six forward for the team. His consistent performance earned him a four-year contract extension with the Kings in 2017.
However, the 2018-2019 season brought changes for Pearson. After a slow start, he was traded to the Pittsburgh Penguins in exchange for Carl Hagelin. His time with the Penguins was brief, as he was traded again later that season to the Vancouver Canucks. This move to Vancouver marked a new chapter in Pearson's career.
With the Canucks, Pearson found a fresh start and quickly adapted to his new team. He became an integral part of the Canucks' forward group, providing veteran leadership and offensive production. During the 2019-2020 season, Pearson recorded 21 goals and 45 points, helping the Canucks reach the playoffs. His experience and steady play were valuable assets during the team's postseason run.
Pearson continued to be a consistent performer for the Canucks in the following seasons. Despite dealing with injuries, he maintained his role as a dependable forward, contributing both offensively and defensively. His ability to play in various situations, including power plays and penalty kills, made him a valuable asset for the team.
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