Brenden Dillon Bio
Brenden Dillon is a Canadian professional ice hockey player who is a defenceman for the New Jersey Devils of the National Hockey League (NHL). Dillon has previously played in the NHL for the Dallas Stars, San Jose Sharks, Washington Capitals, and Winnipeg Jets. Undrafted, and prior to turning professional, Dillon played four seasons of major junior ice hockey in the Western Hockey League (WHL) with the Seattle Thunderbirds.
Early Life and Background
Brenden Dillon was born on November 13, 1990, in Surrey, British Columbia, Canada. He grew up in a family where his mother, Debbie, played a significant role in his upbringing. Dillon’s father was born and raised in Portugal before moving to Toronto, which allowed him to speak both French and Portuguese. He has a younger sister who played beach volleyball for York University. Growing up in Surrey, Dillon was active in various sports, including volleyball, basketball, soccer, and track and field during his elementary and high school years. He attended a private Catholic elementary school and was recognized multiple times as the top track athlete in events such as the 100m, 200m, and long jump. At the age of 15, Dillon began summer training with Impact Hockey Development, which led to him earning a spot on the junior B Hope Icebreakers of the Pacific Junior Hockey League (PIJHL).
Path to Hockey
Despite standing at five-foot-two, Dillon went undrafted in the Western Hockey League (WHL) entry draft and spent one season in the PIJHL before being signed by the Seattle Thunderbirds. Over four seasons with the Thunderbirds, he collected 85 points in 271 games. On March 1, 2011, as an NHL free agent, Dillon signed a three-year, entry-level contract with the Dallas Stars. After signing with the Stars, he was reassigned to their American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Texas Stars, for the remainder of the 2010–11 season. He played 10 games for the team, accumulating no points and eight penalty minutes. Dillon was invited to the Dallas Stars’ training camp prior to the 2011–12 season but was reassigned to Texas on September 28. After playing 31 games for Texas and recording two goals and 11 assists, Dillon was called up to the NHL level to replace an injured Sheldon Souray. He made his NHL debut on April 8, 2012, against the St. Louis Blues, playing nearly 20 minutes and making a significant impact in his first game.
Brenden Dillon Career
Early Career (2011–2014)
After making his debut with the Dallas Stars, Dillon continued to develop his skills in the NHL. Due to the 2012–13 NHL lockout, he began the season with the Texas Stars before joining Dallas once an agreement was reached. On February 1, 2013, Dillon registered his first career Gordie Howe hat trick, which included a fight, an assist, and a goal during a game against the Phoenix Coyotes. He also made his first international appearance with Canada at the 2013 IIHF World Championship, where he scored one goal in eight games. Dillon spent the entire 2013–14 season with the Stars, setting new career highs with 17 points in 80 regular-season games.
Breakthrough (2014–2020)
On November 21, 2014, Dillon was traded to the San Jose Sharks in exchange for defenceman Jason Demers and a third-round pick in the 2016 NHL entry draft. Upon joining the Sharks, he was paired with veteran Brent Burns, which allowed him to return to his natural playing side. Dillon finished the 2014–15 season with the Sharks, recording two goals and seven assists in 60 games. On June 29, 2015, he signed a five-year, $16.35 million contract extension with San Jose. In his third full season with the Sharks, Dillon broke out offensively, setting new career highs in assists and points. Following the 2019–20 season, Dillon was traded to the Washington Capitals, where he continued to perform at a high level.
Notable Works and Milestones
Dillon’s career has been marked by significant milestones, including his participation in international competitions and his contributions to community initiatives. He was recognized for his media engagement and leadership qualities, receiving nominations for various awards, including the King Clancy Memorial Trophy. After three seasons with the Jets, Dillon signed a three-year, $12 million contract with the New Jersey Devils on July 1, 2024.
Brenden Dillon Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Brenden Dillon has received nominations for various awards, reflecting his contributions both on and off the ice.
Brenden Dillon Awards Won
While specific awards won are not detailed, Dillon’s impact in the NHL and his community involvement have been recognized through nominations and accolades.
Brenden Dillon Family
Information about Brenden Dillon’s family is limited, but he has a younger sister who was a beach volleyball player for York University.
Personal Life
Brenden Dillon is actively involved in community service, partnering with HEROS, a non-profit youth hockey organization based in Western Canada, where he serves as an ambassador. He has played a role in opening an additional HEROS office in his hometown of Surrey, British Columbia.
