From being out of hockey for two seasons to becoming one of the best in his league, Syracuse Crunch goaltender Brandon Halverson has been one of the best goalies in the AHL this season, earning an All-Star game appearance.

His breakout is the latest step in a career that’s seen many highs and lows. Ever since he was a kid, hockey caught his eye. 

“I loved watching the goalies and the cool pads that they had. And the custom helmets," Halverson said. "My first pair of pads my dad got me, I saw them and freaked out. I would always sleep with the gear when I was a kid.” 

His love for the aesthetics of goalie sparked a vision.

“My dream has always been to play in the NHL," he said. "I feel I won’t be able to rest until that happens, until I earn a start.” 

Halverson rose as a prospect quickly, and was drafted in the second round in 2014 by the New York Rangers. That’s when the struggles began. He made only one appearance in New York, relieving Henrik Lundqvist in 2018. 

“That famous quote with Mike Tyson, it's like, 'Everyone’s got a plan, until you get punched in the face,'" he said. 

His plan was to start in the NHL. But a few cuts and injuries later, and he was out of hockey. 

“Going through the hardest part of my life for sure," said Halverson. "My dad even said – and my dad’s my biggest supporter – 'Are you thinking about doing something else? Are you sure you want to keep doing this?'" 

Halverson drove for Uber Eats and did farm work, but his dream stayed the same. 

“I still wanted to play in the NHL," he said. "I didn’t know how it was going to happen. Not playing for two years, it’s hard to find a spot.” 

He found one overseas in Germany. Then, Halverson joined the Tampa Bay Lighting organization where he signed with the Crunch last season. 

“It kinda came down to, this is it. I either make something happen or I’m done," Halverson said. 

This year he’s taken off, being named an AHL All-Star. Havlerson ranks at the top of the AHL in shutouts, goals against average and save percentage. 

“I think I’ve always had this in me. I’ve always known I could do this," he said. 

After the ups and downs, Halverson’s big season is a long time coming. He’s enjoying his run with the Crunch, and hopes one day that NHL call comes. 

“I think about it every day," said Halverson. "I truly believe I will get there one day. I feel like when that day comes, if I die the next day, hey, at least I was able to overcome what I did and get to that point and maybe be an inspiration for someone out there.”