Omran Wahidy
Tanner Cook’s statement defines the Roughnecks offence this season.
“We don’t really have one outstanding superstar … we have a great collective bunch.”
Alongside Tyler Pace and Haiden Dickson, Cook is putting together a career-year with 43 goals and 87 points, surpassing his previous high of 70. Pace, who recorded 86 points in 2024, has elevated even further with 90 points this season, while Dickson has climbed past his previous best of 46 with 57 points.
Their production hasn’t come by chance or by luck – it’s something that has been built over time.
“It was kind of a work in progress,” Cook explained. “Just trying to find where everybody fit in… but guys are starting to own their responsibilities.”
That growth has come through repetition and familiarity with each other.
“I kind of have an idea of where they’re going to move before they move there,” Pace said. “That comes with years of playing together.”
“I think that’s just more repetition,” Dickson added. “Playing more games together, practicing … knowing where each other are.”
Defined roles, shared success
Each player has carved out a role within the trio.
Cook operates as a left-side ball carrier and finisher, Pace drives the offence with his playmaking abilities, and Dickson complements the pair with his off-ball movement and scoring touch.
“Pacer’s got a great vision for the floor,” Cook said. “I think just having that balance … everybody knows their responsibilities.”
That balance has translated directly into production.
“Both of them are able to get to the net at will,” Pace said of Cook and Dickson. “When I pass them the ball, chances are something good’s going to happen.”
Chemistry beyond the floor
Off the floor, the connection is just as strong.
From road trips to team dinners and card games, the team’s relationship continues to build.
“We’re always hanging out together,” Cook said. “I think that definitely helps us on the floor.”
“It definitely helps,” Dickson added. “The chemistry is pretty good when we’re around each other.”
The card games, however, are where the personalities really show.
“We always rag on Haiden a little bit,” said Cook, who rooms with Dickson. “He only knows a couple of card games.”
Dickson didn’t exactly deny it.
“I don’t know too many,” he said with a laugh. “I just kind of hang out.”
Strength in the collective
After years of playing alongside veteran stars, the trio has stepped into larger roles and embraced it together.
“We had different roles before,” Dickson said. “Now we’ve stepped up and got used to each other.”
For Pace, that’s the key.
“I think our success comes as a whole, as opposed to one guy,” he said. “We’re getting contributions from everyone.”
And for Cook, that’s what makes them dangerous.
“When everybody’s going together, I think we’re a pretty unstoppable group.”
