Carsen Twarynski

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    Carsen Twarynski Bio

    Carsen Twarynski is a Canadian professional ice hockey left winger who currently plays for the Belfast Giants of the Elite Ice Hockey League (EIHL). Born on November 24, 1997, in St. Albert, Alberta, he came up through the Western Hockey League ranks before being chosen in the third round, 82nd overall, by the Philadelphia Flyers in the 2016 NHL Entry Draft. Standing 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighing around 200 pounds, Twarynski has built his career on a physical, two-way style of play.

    Carsen Twarynski Career

    Early Career (2014–2018)

    Twarynski signed with the Calgary Hitmen of the Western Hockey League at age 16 after a season split between the Okotoks Oilers of the Alberta Junior Hockey League and the Calgary Buffaloes of the Alberta Midget Hockey League. He recorded his first WHL goal on September 29, 2014, during a 9–2 win over the Lethbridge Hurricanes. In his first year of draft eligibility, he posted 20 goals and 45 points, drawing attention from NHL scouts.

    On January 9, 2017, Twarynski was traded to the Kelowna Rockets in exchange for Jake Kryski, and he finished his major junior career in British Columbia. On March 11, 2018, he signed an entry-level contract with the Philadelphia Flyers, ending his time in junior hockey.

    Philadelphia Flyers Era (2018–2021)

    After attending the Flyers’ 2018–19 training camp, Twarynski was assigned to the Lehigh Valley Phantoms of the American Hockey League (AHL) to begin the season. He continued to develop in the AHL and was recalled for the 2019–20 NHL preseason, eventually making his NHL debut on October 4, 2019, in Prague, Czech Republic, as part of the NHL Global Series against the Chicago Blackhawks.

    While he spent most of his time with the Phantoms, Twarynski joined the Flyers’ 2020 training camp for the Stanley Cup playoffs but did not make the postseason roster. On July 21, 2021, he was selected from the Flyers by the Seattle Kraken in the 2021 NHL Expansion Draft.

    European and AHL Transitions (2021–2024)

    Twarynski spent time within the Seattle Kraken organization before becoming an unrestricted free agent. Unable to land another North American deal, he signed his first contract abroad on September 27, 2023, joining the Vienna Capitals of the ICE Hockey League in Austria. He recorded six goals and 13 points in 27 games before securing a midseason return to the AHL.

    On January 8, 2024, Twarynski signed with the Bridgeport Islanders, the primary affiliate of the New York Islanders, finishing the 2023–24 campaign there. He later agreed to a one-year AHL deal with the Abbotsford Canucks on July 24, 2024, before being traded to the San Diego Gulls on March 11, 2025.

    Belfast Giants Era (2025–Present)

    Twarynski continued his career overseas by joining the Belfast Giants of the EIHL, bringing veteran North American experience to the Northern Irish club. He has featured as a left winger with the Giants, contributing physical play and energy in a top European league. His move to Belfast marks his first full season in British hockey after several years split between North America and Austria.

    Driving Style and Strengths

    Twarynski has long described himself as a power forward who plays well in both ends of the rink. His combination of size, skating, and willingness to engage physically has allowed him to play a reliable two-way game at every level. Coaches have consistently used him in energy and checking roles while giving him opportunities to contribute offensively.

    Notable Events and Milestones

    His NHL debut on October 4, 2019, in Prague stands as a career milestone, and his selection by the Seattle Kraken in the 2021 Expansion Draft highlighted his standing within the Flyers’ system at the time. Signing his first European contract with the Vienna Capitals in 2023 also marked a major step in his professional journey.

    Carsen Twarynski Career Wins

    While Twarynski has not yet captured a major professional championship at the senior level, his career has been marked by steady contributions across junior, AHL, and European hockey. His development with the Calgary Hitmen and Kelowna Rockets in the WHL laid the foundation for his professional path, and he has since posted double-digit points in multiple AHL and international campaigns.

    WHL Highlights

    Twarynski’s most productive WHL seasons came with the Calgary Hitmen, where he posted 20 goals and 45 points in his draft year. After being traded to the Kelowna Rockets, he continued to play a significant role before turning pro in 2018.

    Other Wins & Performances

    Beyond junior hockey, Twarynski has delivered solid contributions in the AHL with the Lehigh Valley Phantoms, Bridgeport Islanders, Abbotsford Canucks, and San Diego Gulls. His six-goal, 13-point output with the Vienna Capitals during the first half of the 2023–24 season remains a notable offensive stretch in Europe.

    Carsen Twarynski Family

    Family Background and Racing Lineage

    Twarynski grew up in St. Albert, Alberta, and has an older brother, Brayden Twarynski, who played as a linebacker for the Saskatchewan Huskies. Athletic involvement within the family helped shape Carsen’s early interest in competitive sports.

    Personal Life

    Twarynski keeps his personal life largely private and focuses on his professional hockey career. His path from Alberta minor hockey to the EIHL reflects years of dedication across multiple leagues and countries.

    2025 Season Performance

    The 2025 season has seen Twarynski split time between the Abbotsford Canucks, the San Diego Gulls, and the Belfast Giants, showcasing his adaptability across organizations. He registered two goals and seven points in 26 regular-season games with Abbotsford before being traded to San Diego on March 11, 2025, and later moved on to Belfast.

    His veteran presence has provided depth and energy on the wing, and his willingness to play in any role has been a hallmark of his 2024–25 campaign. Coaches in each league have valued his physical, two-way game.

    Looking ahead, Twarynski will look to establish himself as a steady contributor for the Belfast Giants and continue producing at a high level in the EIHL. His experience across North American and European leagues gives him a unique perspective that could help him take on a larger role in Belfast.