Tanner Pearson Bio
Tanner Pearson is a Canadian professional ice hockey winger currently playing for the Winnipeg Jets of the National Hockey League (NHL). Drafted 30th overall by the Los Angeles Kings in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft, Pearson won the Stanley Cup with the Kings in 2014. Throughout his career, he has played for several NHL teams, including the Pittsburgh Penguins, Vancouver Canucks, Montreal Canadiens, and Vegas Golden Knights.
Early Life and Background
Tanner Pearson was born on August 10, 1992, in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada. He grew up in Kitchener with his sister Ali and his parents, Kim and Tim Pearson. His father worked for Bauer Hockey, an equipment company, and his sister was involved with the Kitchener Rangers hockey team. Pearson began playing junior hockey with the Waterloo Siskins in the Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League at ages 16 and 17.
He was selected by the Barrie Colts in the 14th round of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) Priority Draft. In his rookie season with the Colts, Pearson scored 15 goals and 42 points in 66 games, showing early promise as a skilled winger. He was recognized for his scoring ability and was named to the OHL’s second All-Star Team in the 2011–12 season after recording 37 goals and 91 points in 60 games.
Path to Hockey
Pearson’s junior career advanced as he played for the Barrie Colts, where he developed his scoring and playmaking skills. Despite being passed over in the NHL draft twice, he was eventually selected by the Los Angeles Kings in 2012 as the 30th overall pick. His performance in junior hockey, including a notable hat trick in an overtime win against the Ottawa 67’s, helped establish his reputation as a promising NHL prospect.
His transition to professional hockey began with the Manchester Monarchs, the Kings’ American Hockey League affiliate, before making his NHL debut in the 2013 playoffs. Pearson’s early professional years were marked by steady development and key contributions to his teams.
Tanner Pearson Career
Early Career (2012–2014)
After signing a three-year entry-level contract with the Los Angeles Kings in August 2012, Pearson began his professional career with the Manchester Monarchs in the AHL. He was called up to the Kings during the 2013 Stanley Cup playoffs as a member of the taxi squad, making his NHL debut in a playoff game against the San Jose Sharks in May 2013.
Pearson scored his first NHL goal in November 2013 against the New York Islanders. He played a supporting role during the Kings’ 2014 Stanley Cup championship run, contributing 12 points in 24 playoff games and helping the team secure the title.
Los Angeles Kings Breakthrough (2014–2018)
In the 2014–15 season, Pearson played primarily on a line with Jeff Carter and Tyler Toffoli, known as “That 70s Line” due to their jersey numbers. He earned NHL Rookie of the Month honors in October 2014. Unfortunately, his season was cut short by a broken left fibula in January 2015, sidelining him for the remainder of the year.
After recovering, Pearson continued to develop his game, signing a two-year contract extension in April 2015. He faced a four-game suspension in 2016 for an illegal hit but rebounded with strong performances. By the 2016–17 season, he set career highs with 24 goals and 44 points, leading to a four-year, $15 million contract extension in 2017. He played all 82 games in the 2017–18 season, finishing with 15 goals and 40 points.
Pittsburgh Penguins and Vancouver Canucks Era (2018–2023)
In November 2018, Pearson was traded to the Pittsburgh Penguins, where he played 44 games, scoring nine goals and five assists. The following February, he was traded to the Vancouver Canucks. Pearson made an immediate impact, scoring in his second game with Vancouver and achieving a career-best 45 points in the pandemic-shortened 2019–20 season.
He signed a three-year, $9.75 million extension with the Canucks in April 2021. However, his 2022–23 season was marred by a hand injury requiring multiple surgeries, causing him to miss the remainder of the season. The situation prompted an internal investigation by the Canucks and attention from the NHL Players’ Association.
Montreal Canadiens and Vegas Golden Knights Tenure (2023–2025)
In September 2023, Pearson was traded to the Montreal Canadiens. Ahead of the 2024–25 season, he signed a professional tryout agreement with the Vegas Golden Knights and earned a one-year contract after a strong preseason. Following that season, he signed a one-year contract with the Winnipeg Jets in July 2025.
Playing Style and Strengths
Tanner Pearson is known for his power and skill as a winger. He combines physicality with scoring ability, excelling on both power play and even-strength situations. His versatility allows him to adapt to different line combinations and roles, making him a valuable asset for his teams.
Notable Events and Milestones
Pearson’s career highlights include winning the Stanley Cup with the Los Angeles Kings in 2014 and achieving career-best offensive numbers during his time with the Vancouver Canucks. His resilience in overcoming injuries and suspensions has demonstrated his commitment and professionalism throughout his NHL tenure.
Tanner Pearson Career Wins
Throughout his NHL career, Tanner Pearson has contributed significant goals and points across multiple teams. His scoring ability and consistent play have made him a reliable winger in the league.
Los Angeles Kings Highlights
Pearson’s early NHL success includes his first goal in 2013 and playing a key role in the Kings’ 2014 Stanley Cup championship. He reached career highs in goals and points during the 2016–17 season with the Kings, solidifying his status as a top-six forward.
Other Wins & Performances
With the Vancouver Canucks, Pearson achieved a career-best 45 points in the 2019–20 season. His contributions have extended to playoff appearances and key regular-season performances with the Pittsburgh Penguins, Montreal Canadiens, and Vegas Golden Knights.
Tanner Pearson Family
Family Background and Hockey Lineage
Tanner Pearson comes from a family involved in hockey. His father, Tim Pearson, worked for Bauer Hockey, and his sister, Ali, was affiliated with the Kitchener Rangers. This environment fostered his early interest and development in the sport.
Personal Life
Pearson married his longtime girlfriend, Meaghan Loveday, in mid-2018. Details about his personal life remain private beyond his marriage and family background.
2025 Season Performance
In 2025, Tanner Pearson signed with the Winnipeg Jets, aiming to bring his experience and scoring ability to the team. After a season with the Vegas Golden Knights, where he impressed during preseason and earned a contract, Pearson looks to contribute significantly to the Jets’ offensive depth. His veteran presence and versatility will be key assets as the Jets pursue playoff success.
