HUMBOLDT — As a Junior A rookie, Braiden Koran has found ways to contribute for the Humboldt Broncos.
“Braiden Koran is an underrated player in many facets,” Humboldt assistant coach Curtis Toneff said. “He plays in all situations. He creates momentum for our team by solid hits and pucks to the net. He is coachable and well liked by his teammates and seems to be getting quicker each game. He isn’t a flashy player, but a player that could make a living from hockey. Players like him are hard to find.”
The 6-foot, 205-pound Koran has 16 points and seven goals in 30 games this season. Last week he lit the lamp twice in a win over Melville and scored in a loss to Flin Flon. Koran has collected 33 penalty minutes this season. What has allowed the 18-year-old to contribute?
“Definitely my size and strength mixed with my skating helps me contribute both offensively and defensively,” Koran said.
Last season he suited up at the Junior B level for his hometown Kimberley Dynamiters of the Kootenay International Junior Hockey League.
“Playing in my hometown last year was awesome because of the support from being one of the local kids in a small town and I find it very similar here in Humboldt,” Koran said.
He said the pace and tempo of the game have been the biggest differences between Junior A and Junior B. One of Koran’s teammates last season – and in past campaigns – was Cranbrook’s Jackson Bohan. The defenceman is a Bronco this season. The pair billet together at the Cannons.
“He’s one of my childhood best friends and it’s awesome we can continue to play together,” Koran said of Bohan.
He is certainly glad that the opportunity came about to come to Humboldt.
“I’ve enjoyed everything so far. The community, my billets, my teammates, and just the hockey as well. “
