Casey DeSmith is a professional ice hockey goaltender currently playing for the Vancouver Canucks of the National Hockey League (NHL). Known for his athleticism, competitiveness, and resilience, DeSmith has carved out a solid career as a reliable backup and occasional starter in the NHL.
Born on August 13, 1991, in Rochester, New Hampshire, DeSmith’s path to the NHL wasn’t paved with instant success. He honed his skills through junior hockey before attending the University of New Hampshire (UNH), where he played for the Wildcats. During his time at UNH, DeSmith steadily improved, showcasing his potential as a goaltender. His collegiate performance caught the attention of NHL scouts, ultimately leading to a professional opportunity.
DeSmith signed as an undrafted free agent with the Pittsburgh Penguins organization in 2015. He initially played for the Penguins’ American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins. He steadily climbed the ranks, proving himself to be a valuable asset in the minor leagues. His consistent performance and dedication earned him his first NHL call-up during the 2017-18 season. He made his NHL debut on October 29, 2017, against the Winnipeg Jets.
In Pittsburgh, DeSmith primarily served as the backup goaltender behind Matt Murray and later Tristan Jarry. Despite limited playing time, he consistently provided solid goaltending when called upon. He became known for his calm demeanor in the net and his ability to make key saves in crucial moments. His presence allowed the Penguins to rely on a dependable option when their starting goaltender was unavailable.
Beyond his technical abilities, DeSmith is respected for his work ethic and positive attitude. He is known as a dedicated teammate and a player who always puts in the effort to improve his game. He’s also proven to be adaptable, handling the pressures of being a backup while staying prepared to step into a starting role when needed.
In the 2023 offseason, DeSmith was traded to the Montreal Canadiens and subsequently to the Vancouver Canucks. This move provided him with a new opportunity to showcase his skills and potentially compete for more playing time. For the Canucks, he provides valuable experience and depth in the goaltending position.
Throughout his career, Casey DeSmith has demonstrated the value of perseverance and hard work. From an undrafted free agent to a reliable NHL goaltender, he has proven that dedication and a positive attitude can lead to success in a highly competitive environment. He continues to be a valuable asset to his team, both on and off the ice, and a testament to the power of never giving up on a dream.