Tanner Bruender has been the most productive Nanaimo Clipper in the first two months of 2026. (Image Credit: Damon James/Island Images Photography)

By Dan Marshall

Filling the Net

Bruender leading Clippers offence in 2026

Feb 13, 2026 | 9:33 AM

NANAIMO — Tanner Bruender is playing his best hockey in a Clipper jersey in 2026.

In the first nine games of the calendar year the 20-year-old has 15 points, which leads the team over the time span, with Bruender recently recognized with an honourable mention for the BCHL 3 Stars of the Week.

Bruender said he’s enjoying his recent success but is also trying to not put too much pressure on himself.

“I think I’m playing well. I’m going out with the mindset of going out and just having fun. I’m focused on getting the win but offensively whatever happens, happens. I’m not the type of guy to worry about points. I think the bigger thing for me is winning games and being a team player. At the end of the day everyone’s end goal is winning a championship.”

For the last few weeks the Minnesota product has been playing on a line with Sam Boisvert and Patrick Fortune.

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“You’re not going to get the puck very often without your linemates so obviously they’re a huge part of it,” Bruender said. “The other part is being confident in yourself and having belief that you can make the play.”

Despite putting up elite numbers for a long stretch of games, Bruender does not have a hockey commitment for next season.

It’s his final year of junior eligibility and he wants to play at the NCAA Division 1 college level in the fall.

“I’m not too worried about it but obviously it’s in the back of my mind. I’ve made some phone calls with different coaches and I’m weighing all my options and hopefully make a decision soon.”

Bruender is one of the team leaders but feels the overall leadership is widely shared.

“I try to lead by example on and off the ice. That’s what’s so great about our leadership group, we all do our part and try to do everything right. I think coach Birkas has brought in the right guys and we’re all clicking in the locker room. If you’re really close to your teammates, you’re going to have success on the ice.”

The Clippers have a busy weekend upcoming with three games in four days including home dates with Surrey and Powell River on Feb. 13 and 14 and a trip to Vernon on Feb. 16.

Nanaimo has a five point lead over the Alberni Valley Bulldogs for second place in the Coastal West division.

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