Sahvan Khaira hasn't quite been in Swift Current for a full year, but he's been here long enough to see some real strides.

Acquired at the trade deadline last season for Cavin Leth, the 18-year-old defenceman is feeling like he has been able to make some significant progress in his game over that time.

"It's coming along," Khaira said. "There's room for improvement for sure but that just comes with repetition of playing. I think the opportunity I'm getting I'm trying my best to take it, run with it and I think it's helping a lot for sure."

As the season has gone on he has been given bigger minutes and more opportunity against better players.

"More confidence mostly," Khaira said. "Just comfortable out there making plays. The first play is always the right play now in my mind I believe."

"Just getting to know the guys and knowing where everyone is going to be helps."

Throughout the season Khaira has played on a pair with rookie defenceman Dom Schmiemann. It's a pair that has earned the confidence of the coaching staff despite playing behind two pairs of veterans.

"I think we read each other well," Khaira said. "We know where we're going to be. A lot of communication. It's fun playing with Dom he's a great young player and we learn from each other."

Khaira has 6 points and is a +2 in 27 games so far this season.

At 6'3, 218lbs the brother of current Edmonton Oilers prospect Jujhar Khaira may still be able to get attention of NHL scouts this year despite being passed over in the 2016 draft.

Khaira and the Broncos are back in action after five days off when they host the Calgary Hitmen tonight for their annual Teddy Bear Toss sponsored by JayDee AgTech. Bring stuffed animals, mittens and toques for the Salvation Army to the game and toss them on the ice when the Broncos score.

You can hear tonight's game on The Eagle 94.1 FM at 6:30pm with Robertson Family Group Broncos Hockey. Puck drop is just after 7pm at the Credit Union iPlex.