Tanner Laczynski has become a vital force for the Henderson Silver Knights this season, playing a central role in a roster blending promising prospects and experienced veterans. With the team now trailing the Tucson Roadrunners by two points in the Pacific Division standings, Henderson is gearing up for a final-season surge to secure a playoff berth and return to the postseason for the first time since 2022. Laczynski shared insights on his personal development, team dynamics, and the critical push ahead.
Progress and Expectations for the Remainder of the Season
Reflecting on his season, Laczynski expressed confidence in his own performance, emphasizing the importance of consistency and team accountability as they enter the final stages of the campaign. With 27 games left, the Silver Knights are focused on collecting points steadily without leaving their fate to the last game.
“I think, personally, I’ve had a good season. I feel like I’ve been pretty consistent. But overall, as a team, we’re just outside the playoffs right now, and we have 27 games left to make a push. I think it’s important to get points sooner rather than later and not have it come down to the last game of the season — kind of hold ourselves accountable. Especially over this next stretch before a pretty crazy March, these are important games before things get hectic and we play 16 games in 30 days. We’ve just got to take it one game at a time and start stacking wins together.” – Tanner Laczynski, Henderson Silver Knights center
He also noted the significance of winning early in this stretch, which includes a demanding March schedule where the team will face 16 games within a 30-day span. The Silver Knights must maintain focus and stack positive results to solidify their playoff chances.
Managing the AHL’s Challenges Throughout the Season
Laczynski emphasized the natural ups and downs players face during the AHL season, especially stressing the need to simplify the game when not playing at peak form. His advice to younger teammates involves focusing on basics and competing fully in every shift, creating a foundation for long-term success.
“Obviously you’re not going to be perfect every night. I think that’s one of the things I’ve been trying to tell some of the young guys: there are nights when you’re not going to feel 100% or feel right, and that’s when you need to simplify your game, go back to the basics and do whatever it takes to win your shift. At the end of the game, I think you’ll be pretty happy, because 99% of the time you’re winning those games.” – Tanner Laczynski, Henderson Silver Knights center
His approach helps encourage resilience and mental toughness among the team’s many young prospects, an important theme given the rigors of the AHL schedule.
Fostering Growth in a Youthful Locker Room
Playing alongside many developing players has been an exciting experience for Laczynski, who has taken on a mentorship role. He cited his ongoing collaboration with forward Hemmerling as an example of how communication helps build chemistry and improve performance on the ice.
“It’s exciting — it’s fun to see guys grow as players, and if you can have any part in that, that’s awesome. When I’m here, I’m just trying to help the young guys succeed and grow their games any way I can. I’ve been on the same line as Hammer all year, so just talking with him has helped a lot. He’s been outstanding this season — he asks questions, knows where I like to be on the ice, and I know what he’s going to do out there, which makes things easier. Communication is the biggest part — talking through situations or what you saw after a shift — and just trying to build from that.”
– Tanner Laczynski, Henderson Silver Knights center
Laczynski has engaged in conversations with these younger teammates about staying patient through performance slumps, encouraging perseverance.
“I think hockey is a game of slumps and ups and downs — not everyone’s game is Connor McDavid or Sidney Crosby. Everyone goes through stretches where the puck just isn’t going in, but it’s about sticking with it. It’s funny how the game works: sometimes you get one opportunity in two or three games and it ends up in the back of the net, and other times you feel like you’re doing everything right, getting all these chances. I think it comes down to finding consistency, sticking with it and being ready and available every night. That’s what’s going to bode well for young guys long-term.” – Tanner Laczynski, Henderson Silver Knights center
Guidance from Experienced Teammates
In addition to mentoring younger players, Laczynski has benefited from the presence of veterans like Dylan Coghlan and Jaycob Megna. Their experience playing in the NHL and being part of winning teams provides valuable leadership that enhances the Silver Knights’ locker room atmosphere.
“Yeah, it’s been good. Bringing in some new guys, along with guys who have already been in the program — players who’ve been on winning teams, played NHL games and been around winning cultures — really helps the locker room and gives the young guys a better understanding of what it takes. It’s been a good mix of older guys and younger guys for sure. As for myself, I think I’ve evolved as a leader by trying to lead more through communication and experience, just helping guys along and doing whatever I can to support the group.”
– Tanner Laczynski, Henderson Silver Knights center
Leadership Growth and Role on the Team
Laczynski described his leadership style as more subtle and example-driven rather than vocal or overtly demonstrative. He prioritizes connecting with players on personal levels and maintaining consistency in effort and preparation.
“Obviously for me, I’m not the most vocal, hooray guy in the locker room. I think I do a good job connecting with the young guys and just talking — not even about hockey sometimes, just life in general. That’s how you get to know them and how they see who you are off the ice as well as on it. I try to show up every day, work hard in practice and do the same thing during games. I try to lead by example, doing the little things that might not always get noticed but are a big part of winning, and just being more consistent with that throughout the year.” – Tanner Laczynski, Henderson Silver Knights center
This approach has helped him gain the trust of teammates, particularly the younger players who look to him for guidance both on and off the ice.
Outlook for the Playoff Push
With fewer than 30 games remaining, the team’s focus is on consistent effort and strong finishes, especially in February, before the demanding March schedule. Laczynski is confident in the Silver Knights’ potential to make a special run and emphasizes the importance of competing night after night.
“Honestly, I just hope we compete every night. I think we have a great group of guys and a really good team, and we can do something special. At the end of the day, we only have a couple more games left in February, so we need a strong finish to the month. Then things ramp up in March with longer road trips and less practice time, so it’ll be a good chance for us to bond on the road, pick up some wins and build off that.” – Tanner Laczynski, Henderson Silver Knights center
The looming stretch of road games provides an opportunity for team bonding and gaining momentum, which could prove decisive in the Silver Knights’ bid for their first postseason appearance since 2022.
The leadership and determination shown by Tanner Laczynski and his teammates will play a crucial role as the Henderson Silver Knights chase a playoff spot amid fierce competition within the Pacific Division. Their ability to maintain resilience, foster growth among young players, and capitalize on veteran experience may define their season’s success.
