When hockey enthusiasts search for “How Old Is Will Smith,” they’re tapping into the curiosity surrounding one of the sport’s most electrifying young talents. William “Will” Smith, a name already resonating within the NHL circles, has rapidly ascended from a highly touted prospect to a collegiate star, captivating fans with his exceptional skill and on-ice prowess. Born on March 28, 2005, Will Smith is currently 19 years old, as of late 2024, a testament to how much he has already accomplished at such a young age.
This article delves into the burgeoning career of Will Smith, exploring his journey from youth hockey to becoming a standout freshman at Boston College and a top NHL draft pick. We’ll unpack his impressive stats, accolades, and the milestones that mark him as a player destined for greatness.
Will Smith’s Meteoric Rise: From Draft Pick to College Hockey Star
Will Smith’s hockey journey is marked by a series of remarkable achievements, highlighting his exceptional talent from a young age. His career trajectory took a significant leap when the San Jose Sharks selected him as the fourth overall pick in the NHL Entry Draft. This monumental moment not only underscored his potential but also etched his name in Boston College history as the highest NHL draft pick ever to come from the institution.
Before donning the Boston College Eagles jersey, Smith showcased his exceptional abilities with the U.S. National Team Development Program (USNTDP). His tenure with the USNTDP was nothing short of extraordinary, culminating in a dominant 2022-23 season where he amassed an astounding 127 points. This incredible feat places him second in the USNTDP’s single-season scoring records, just behind Gabe Perreault, and ahead of notable NHL stars. Over his two seasons with the program, Smith accumulated 191 points, solidifying his place as second all-time in USNTDP history, only trailing Jack Hughes, the first overall pick in the 2019 NHL draft.
Alt text: Will Smith in his Boston College Eagles jersey, showcasing his skill and determination on the ice.
His international success further cemented his status as a top prospect. At the 2023 IIHF Under-18 World Championship, Smith was instrumental in leading Team USA to a gold medal victory. His exceptional performance earned him the MVP title of the tournament, fueled by an impressive stat line of nine goals and 11 assists in just seven games.
Dominating Freshman Season at Boston College
Transitioning to college hockey, Will Smith continued to exceed expectations during his freshman season (2023-24) at Boston College. He not only adapted seamlessly to the collegiate level but thrived, becoming the nation’s leading scorer with an impressive 71 points. His playmaking abilities were particularly evident, as he topped the charts with 46 assists, a figure that ranks as the second-highest single-season total in Boston College program history. Moreover, his 71 points stand as the 10th highest in a single season for BC, and remarkably, the highest ever achieved by a freshman in the program’s history, surpassing previous records set by legendary players.
Smith’s impact extended into the postseason, where he was named the Hockey East Tournament MVP and earned a spot on the All-Tournament Team. His exceptional performance in the championship game, where he became only the third player and first freshman ever to score a hat trick – actually netting four goals along with an assist – was pivotal in securing Boston College’s 12th Hockey East Tournament championship.
His outstanding freshman campaign garnered national recognition, earning him CCM/AHCA First Team All-American honors and placing him as a finalist for the prestigious Hobey Baker Award, college hockey’s equivalent of the Heisman Trophy. He was also named a Hockey East First Team All-Star and selected for the Hockey East Rookie Team, further solidifying his dominant presence in collegiate hockey.
Career Highlights and Personal Insights
Throughout his burgeoning career, Will Smith has achieved numerous milestones, showcasing his consistent excellence. His career-high statistics highlight his offensive capabilities:
CAREER HIGHS:
- Points: 5 (vs. Boston University, March 23, 2024)
- Goals: 4 (vs. Boston University, March 23, 2024)
- Assists: 3 (five times, most recently vs. UMass, March 22, 2024)
- Shots: 7 (twice, most recently vs. Denver, April 13, 2024)
- Plus/Minus: +3 (four times, most recently vs. Michigan, April 11, 2024)
Beyond the ice, Will Smith’s personal background provides further insight into the person behind the player. Majoring in Communication Studies at Boston College, he is the son of Colleen and Bill Smith and has a sister Grace, who is also a junior at BC. His family ties to Boston College run deep, with his father Bill graduating in 1990 and grandfather Francis William Smith as an alumnus from the class of 1956. He is also a recipient of The Heffernan Family Men’s Hockey Fund and The Walker Family Ice Hockey Scholarship, supporting his academic and athletic pursuits.
Conclusion: The Future is Bright for Will Smith
At just 19 years old, Will Smith has already established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the hockey world. From his record-breaking seasons with the USNTDP to his dominant freshman year at Boston College, and his status as a top NHL draft pick, Smith’s trajectory points towards a future filled with immense potential. As he continues to develop and hone his skills, the hockey world eagerly anticipates the next chapter in the career of this exceptional young talent. Knowing “how old Will Smith is” provides context to the incredible accomplishments he has already achieved and underscores the exciting prospects that lie ahead for this rising star.
