There’s no truth to the rumor Denver forward Jared Wright is going trick or treating as the Roadrunner. But it wouldn’t be the looniest idea.

The junior has carved out a reputation as one of the fastest players in all of Division I hockey and often serves as a one-man gang on penalty kills and forechecks because of it.

However, he’s quietly rounding out his game to the point it’s fair to ask if the Los Angeles Kings, who drafted him in the sixth round of 2022, might sign him after this season. His skill set compares favorably to that of former Pioneer Logan O’Connor, who is carving out a nice career with the Colorado Avalanche.

Wright took time recently to speak with Magness Mayhem founder Chris Bayee.

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What are some of your favorite hockey memories?

Definitely the (2024) national championship game is No. 1, but I’d say all the games leading up to that: UMass, Cornell, Boston University, and the big one. All of those moments with your teammates during the game, after the game, the little moments are the memories I’ll remember for the rest of my life.

What sorts of things did DU do to change its focus from offense to defense?

It was a big commitment to defense. We had that 7-2 loss to Western (Michigan) earlier in the season, and I think we were pretty upset. We went to the video pretty hard there. That was a big reason for that big stretch at the end, our commitment to defense and obviously, Matt Davis played unbelievably and saved us in a lot of those games. I’d say overall, getting back to the house and picking up sticks was a big factor.

Why do you wear number 18?

It was the only number when I came in here, but I’m very happy with it for sure.

What have you done to develop your speed?

I’m just very lucky that since a young age, I’ve been able to play with great players and I’ve been able to develop that over time, especially in high school when I played with a lot of fast players. Then in junior hockey and here, our practices are so high-paced that I think that helps a lot with everyone on our team.

For me, it’s also really good genetics and always chasing my brothers around.

Your mom was a gymnast in Nebraska and then you played junior in Omaha.

It was really nice for her being around there, getting back to that area where she went to college to watch me play.

Denver forward Jared Wright. Photo courtesy of Clarkson Creative via Denver Athletics

Do you have a favorite meal?

White rice and double chicken from Chipotle.

What did you learn from attending L.A. Kings development camps?

It’s just all about learning. Every year you’re trying to pick up something new, especially my first year with the pro guys. Quinton Byfield and Arthur Kaliyev, people on the pro team, were there. It’s great to zoom in on those guys and look at the details of their game. Obviously, their pro habits are why they’re in the NHL, and I’m trying to implement those into my game.

Does it help your confidence level when you come back here after playing with guys who are either in the NHL or about to be?

Yeah, for sure. Even here just training in the summer. We’re all working at a high pace with Matt Shaw. Then development camp as well, it really prepares you for the season.

Did you have a favorite team or player growing up?

My favorite player was Paul Kariya because my mom really liked him growing up. That wasn’t exactly in my time, but watching his highlights was very cool. I’m a big Wild fan. I’ll go with my buddies during Christmas break to watch them any chance I can. It’s a lot of fun.

When you have free time, what do you like to do away from the rink?

I love hanging out with my teammates, either watching movies or watching hockey.

Do you have a favorite Halloween candy?

Definitely Kit Kats. That’s my favorite.

What is the best Halloween costume you’ve ever worn?

When I was in fifth grade I dressed up as a Storm Trooper from Star Wars.

Any chance you might reprise that role here at DU?

Uh, maybe. But I’d probably get a lot of crap for that.

Are you superstitious at all?

No, I’m pretty even-keeled. Nothing is the same on game day. I don’t want to mess around.

Is there a class clown on the team?

Rieger Lorenz, no question. He’s always cracking jokes. I think that’s what makes our locker room so special. It’s always jokes and a really fun environment to be in. It keeps things light.

©First Line Editorial 2024