Rookie Forward Brayden Edwards Adapting to the Pro Game with Poise and Focus
Adjusting to professional hockey can be a steep climb for any rookie, but for Brayden Edwards, the transition to the Wheeling Nailers and Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins has been a process of steady adaptation and confidence in his own abilities. “I think the physicality and the size of players. I think it's a big difference and obviously puck speed as well,” Edwards said in a recent one-on-one interview. “A lot of people in this league have played pro for a while, so it's a bit of an adjustment, but I think I've handled it well and I'm pretty used to it now.”
He admits that the speed and overall pace of the game have been the biggest jump from the WHL. “I'd say the biggest difference is probably the speed. It's a huge one, a big jump up, and then, as well as the puck speed. Everyone in the A is here for a reason. It's just a little bit more of a step, and I think everything just is a little better overall.” Yet despite the challenges, Edwards has focused on staying grounded and simplifying his game. “Obviously, it's hard sometimes, but I think you just go back to the basics. You remember why you're here; you're here for a reason. Just simplify your game as much as possible,” he explained.
Photo Credit: Wheeling Nailers
A supportive locker room has made the transition smoother. “I think it was a pretty easy adjustment. Our team has a whole bunch of rookies back in Wheeling. So, it was obviously really easy, and then all the older guys, Q [Matt Quercia] was a big help in kind of showing the ropes and teaching us a bit about pro hockey, as well as all the other returning vets.” With guidance from veterans, Edwards has been able to embrace his role, whether playing center or adjusting to time on the wing. “I think just the same old play in my game, but I think bringing pucks off walls, picking pucks up, because I've been playing a bit of center in the wing. Primarily, I was a center before, and just adjusting a bit to all the wing differences.”
Beyond skill and technique, Edwards emphasizes mindset and balance. “I think you just gotta treat it like any other game. I've been playing the sport my whole life. Nothing's really new; nothing I'm going to see is new. Just treat it like any other game, not trying to put too much pressure on myself.” He also recognizes the value of life off the ice. “There are a lot of little things. I like to hang out with the guys in my spare time. I think that's a good reset, and just anything away from hockey, I think, is a really good reset.”
For Edwards, the goal is clear: compete, improve, and set himself up for future success. “Wherever I'm playing, I wanna win and go all the way. That's the main goal, and then just develop as much as I can as a player wherever I'm playing. I just want to improve and set myself up in a good spot for next year.” By staying focused on the fundamentals, leaning on veteran guidance, and maintaining perspective, the rookie forward is laying the foundation for a promising professional career.
- Samantha Wismer/Olde City Sports Network
- Photo Credit: Wheeling Nailers
