Brett Howden Bio
Brett Howden is a Canadian professional ice hockey centre currently playing for the Vegas Golden Knights of the National Hockey League (NHL). Born on March 29, 1998, in Oakbank, Manitoba, Howden was drafted 27th overall in the 2016 NHL entry draft by the Tampa Bay Lightning. He began his professional career in 2017 and has earned recognition as a Stanley Cup champion with the Golden Knights in 2023.
Early Life and Background
Brett Howden was born and raised in Oakbank, Manitoba, Canada. Growing up in a hockey-supportive environment, he developed his skills early and showed promise as a young athlete. His family background includes a brother, Quinton Howden, who was also drafted into the NHL, highlighting a strong hockey lineage.
Howden’s early exposure to competitive hockey came through his participation with the Moose Jaw Warriors of the Western Hockey League (WHL). His leadership qualities emerged early as he served as captain for Canada’s under-18 team, leading them to a gold medal at the 2015 Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament. He was also named captain of the Moose Jaw Warriors in 2016, after serving as an alternate captain the previous season.
Path to Hockey
Howden’s junior career with the Moose Jaw Warriors was marked by steady development and notable achievements. In the 2015-16 season, he recorded 24 goals and 40 assists over 68 games, finishing fourth on the team in goals and points. His performance in the playoffs included multiple multi-point games, showcasing his offensive capabilities.
His strong play and leadership drew attention from NHL scouts, leading to his selection by the Tampa Bay Lightning in the first round of the 2016 NHL draft. The familiarity with Lightning forward Brayden Point, a former teammate, influenced the team’s decision to draft Howden. He signed a three-year entry-level contract with Tampa Bay in December 2016, marking his transition to professional hockey.
Brett Howden Career
Early Career (2017–2018)
After concluding his junior season, Howden joined the Syracuse Crunch, the American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate of the Tampa Bay Lightning, on an amateur tryout agreement. He made his professional debut in April 2017 and scored his first professional goal shortly thereafter. His initial professional season helped him gain valuable experience at a higher level of competition.
In February 2018, Howden was traded to the New York Rangers in a multi-player deal. This move marked a significant step in his career as he transitioned to a new organization and continued his development within the Rangers’ system.
New York Rangers Breakthrough (2018–2021)
Howden spent several seasons with the New York Rangers organization, working to establish himself as a reliable NHL player. During this period, he gained experience and contributed to the team’s depth at the centre position. His time with the Rangers was crucial for his growth and adaptation to the demands of the NHL.
Vegas Golden Knights Era (2021–Present)
In July 2021, Brett Howden was traded to the Vegas Golden Knights. This transition proved pivotal, as he became part of a team that would go on to win its first Stanley Cup in 2023. During the championship run, Howden contributed five goals and five assists, playing an important role in the Golden Knights’ success.
In November 2024, Howden signed a five-year contract extension with Vegas, securing his place on the team through the 2029–30 season. This commitment reflects the organization’s confidence in his abilities and his value as a core player moving forward.
Playing Style and Strengths
Brett Howden is known for his size and versatility as a centre, standing 191 cm tall and weighing 88 kg. His playing style combines physicality with offensive skill, allowing him to be effective in both scoring and playmaking roles. Howden’s leadership qualities and experience contribute to his strategic approach on the ice.
Notable Events and Milestones
Howden’s career milestone includes winning the Stanley Cup with the Vegas Golden Knights in 2023, a significant achievement that highlights his contributions at the highest level of professional hockey. His early leadership roles and steady progression through junior and professional ranks mark him as a dedicated and impactful player.
Brett Howden Career Wins
Throughout his career, Brett Howden has accumulated valuable experience and contributed to team successes across multiple leagues. His professional journey includes key performances in the AHL, NHL, and junior hockey, culminating in a Stanley Cup championship.
National Hockey League Highlights
Howden was drafted in the first round of the 2016 NHL entry draft and made his NHL debut with the New York Rangers before becoming a key player for the Vegas Golden Knights. His first NHL goals and assists helped establish his presence, and his playoff contributions in 2023 were instrumental in the Golden Knights’ championship victory.
Other Wins & Performances
Before turning professional, Howden earned recognition as the Moose Jaw Warriors’ Rookie of the Year and Most Sportsmanlike Player. His leadership as captain of the Warriors and Canada’s under-18 team further underscores his impact at the junior level.
Brett Howden Family
Family Background and Hockey Lineage
Brett Howden comes from a family with strong hockey ties. His brother, Quinton Howden, was selected 25th overall in the 2010 NHL entry draft by the Florida Panthers, indicating a shared family dedication to the sport and professional hockey careers.
Personal Life
Details about Brett Howden’s personal life, including marital status and children, are not publicly available. His focus remains on his professional hockey career and contributions to his team.
2025 Season Performance
Heading into the 2025 season, Brett Howden is expected to continue his role as a key centre for the Vegas Golden Knights. With a recent contract extension through 2029, Howden’s presence provides stability and depth to the team’s lineup. His experience from the 2023 Stanley Cup victory positions him as a valuable asset in the pursuit of further success.
The Golden Knights aim to build on their championship momentum, and Howden’s consistent play and leadership will be integral to their competitive efforts. Team dynamics and his partnership with coaching staff will shape his contributions throughout the season.