That choice to prioritize development and long-term growth over fast-tracking to the pros revealed something important early: Tomkins wasn’t in this for instant gratification. He was in it for the long haul. Tomkins’ Career Was Built the Hard Way After turning pro in 2017, Tomkins started the long, uphill climb through hockey’s tougher circuits. He didn’t get fast-tracked or handed easy opportunities. From the ECHL to the American Hockey League (AHL), every start was something he had to earn—through effort, focus, and persistence. Eventually, he made the leap to Sweden, playing in the top-tier Swedish Hockey League (SHL) with Färjestad BK and Frölunda HC. It was a turning point. Against high-level European talent, he held his own and more, putting up a .910 save percentage (SV%) while adapting to a new style of play. That stretch didn’t just help refine his mechanics—it also pushed him mentally, forcing him to adjust to a different pace, new angles, and less familiar systems. Those who watch the SHL know that playing there forces goaltenders to grow or get left behind. Tomkins rose to the challenge. Tomkins Brings International Experience & Had His NHL Dreams Realized Tomkins’ perseverance eventually opened doors far beyond the minor leagues. In 2022, he got the call to represent Canada on the international stage—first at the Winter Olympics, where he posted a shutout that became a real point of pride for fans back home. A few months later, he was between the pipes again at the IIHF World Championship, helping Canada to a silver medal and showing he could hold his own under real pressure. Then came 2023. After years of bouncing between teams, leagues, and time zones, Tomkins finally made his NHL debut with the Tampa Bay Lightning. And he made it count—23 saves, calm and collected, and his first NHL win in Montreal. It wasn’t just a game; it was years of grind and belief finally paying off.