Tom Wilson on balancing physicality and offensive skill: 'I just want to be spending more time on the ice, less time in the box'

"Tom Wilson spent the early days of his career better known for what he could do with his body than what he could do with the puck. As a young player, Wilson established a reputation for physicality by throwing hits and punches alike, a skill that made him beloved in Washington but saw him become a frequent visitor of the penalty box and NHL Department of Player Safety."

"Now 31, Wilson hasn't lost his edge, but he's diversified his skillset. His offensive talent was on full display with a 65-point season (33g, 32a) in 2024-25 that saw him nearly double his previous career high in scoring and record his first-ever 30-goal campaign. Off the ice, he's become a crucial part of the Capitals locker room as the team's presumed future captain."

"Wilson hit his peak in fights in his very first season, dropping the gloves 14 times as a rookie in 2013-14 while scoring 10 points (3g, 7a). He's been suspended seven times in his NHL career, including four hit-related suspensions in a span of 105 games from 2017 to 2018, and led the league in penalty minutes (96) during the COVID-shortened 2020-21 season."

Tom Wilson began his NHL career known more for physical play than puck skill, earning a reputation for hits and fights and frequent penalties. He peaked in fights as a rookie, dropping the gloves 14 times in 2013-14, and accumulated seven suspensions, including four hit-related bans across 105 games from 2017–18, and led the league with 96 penalty minutes in 2020–21. Wilson has diversified, posting a 65-point (33g, 32a) 2024–25 season and his first 30-goal campaign while reducing fights and penalties. He prioritizes ice time over fighting and has become an influential veteran and presumed future Capitals captain.

Read at RMNB