Red Deer Rebels Jhett Larson has made a habit of continuing to outdo himself.
Since playing his first full season in a Rebels uniform in the 2021-22 season the 20-year-old forward has shown great growth, especially on the scoresheet.
After recording 32 points in his rookie year, Larson notched 35 last year, and now with 15 games left in the 2023-24 campaign, he’s recorded 36 points.
With plenty of time to add even more Larson said on Thursday his success this year has a lot to do with the chemistry he’s formed with linemates Kai Uchacz and Frantisek Formanek.
“We’re starting to know where we are at all times and staying positive throughout games. Just always keeping that same next shift mindset not worrying about the last shift,” he said.
“It’s nice to surpass last year’s total but if we’re winning that’s the only thing that matters. To get back on the wintrain against Calgary is better than surpassing my point total.”
Larson has made setting up his teammates a priority this season reaching a career-high 24 assists. Even though he has taken a slight dip in scoring goals with 12 this year there’s still time to overtake his 18 tallys from last year.
His confidence has also come with time and experience playing in the Western Hockey League. It’s also what earned him an assistant captain role on the team this year.
“I’m getting used to the speed and being more consistent every game,” he said. “I want to lead on and off the ice but by example.
“One of the best things in my game is how I lead and being a spark of energy for the guys during the game whether it’s hitting someone, blocking shots, or scoring a goal. It’s all the same.”
Head coach Derrick Walser said Larson’s game is all about being tenacious.
“He works his tail off every day. When you do it the right way you get rewarded and he deserves more,” Walser said. “He had a little bit of a slow start but he’s buying in, he’s accountable, and plays in all areas.”
His relentless work ethic on the ice is where Walser said Larson shines the brightest. He also has a hard shot which Walser hopes to see him use more often.
Standing just five feet eight inches tall and 178 pounds Larson is considered undersized in the game of hockey. However, Walser said the game has changed and it isn’t about size anymore.
“He’s got a big heart. His compete level is off the charts and that’s something you can’t teach. If you don’t have it you don’t have it. He’s going to be a guy we count on a lot,” Walser said.
“He’s willing to go in the corners with anybody and willing to battle with anyone. That’s why you love him and that’s why we’re happy to have him.
“What he’s got to do is don’t let it knock him down. Keep going and eventually, you’ll knock down those doors that’ll bring you to the next level.”
Larson explained weight training has helped him a lot to add a physical aspect to his game.
Having an extra step of speed and strength in puck battles along the board has also helped even the playing field.
It was an attribute he knew he had to add to his game as a 16-year-old in his rookie year. Nowadays his size doesn’t seem to hold him back.
“I think everyone’s human. Honestly, that’s one of the things I like to say before a game. Just getting in the right mindset that it doesn’t matter how big they are, they’re going to feel the same,” he said.
“We’re both on skates so there’s no advantage I don’t think.”
The Rebels are set to play the Edmonton Oil Kings on Friday night at the Peavey Mart Centrium. However, it’s no ordinary game for Larson who will suit up for his 200th WHL game.
Defenceman Jace Weir also celebrated that milestone earlier this season.
“It’s really cool. It doesn’t seem like it’s been 200. I didn’t know that was coming up so soon… It’s awesome to celebrate 200 with another guy who came in the same year as me… We’ve been here grinding for so long it’s paying off.”