DJ Smith’s hockey legacy continues to grow, even after his playing days in the National Hockey League (NHL) wrapped up. Smith is widely recognized as one of the bright young NHL head coaches, having been at the helm of the Ottawa Senators since 2019.

Before his coaching career began, Smith laced up the skates for 45 NHL games with the Toronto Maple Leafs and Colorado Avalanche after starring with the Windsor Spitfires as a rugged and offensively minded blueliner. In his rookie season with the Spitfires he appeared in 61 games. He was named team captain during 1996-97 season.

In retirement Smith returned to the Windsor Spitfires where he spent 6 seasons as an Assistant Coach. During his tenure in Windsor, the Spitfires captured back-to-back Memorial Cup championships in 2009 and 2010.

Smith earned the opportunity to be a head coach for the Oshawa Generals and took the team to a Memorial Cup victory in 2015. Smith’s Generals won 135 games in just three seasons and much of the hockey world noticed his ability at getting his team wins.  In the 2013-2014 season he was named Ontario Hockey League’s Coach of the Year.

A promotion for Smith followed his success with the Generals when the Maple Leafs made him an assistant coach the following season.  After four campaigns in Toronto, Smith landed a head coaching job with the Ottawa Senators.

DJ Smith’s impressive accomplishments in hockey have earned him induction into the Windsor/Essex County Sport Hall of Fame in the Athlete category.