Player Report: Tristan Blackmon

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Tristan Blackmon is a staple in the Vancouver defence.

 

His unstoppable mentality combined with his high IQ defensive positioning he is everywhere all the time.

 

Tristan has been in the league since 2018 when was drafted by LAFC in the Super Draft. Over the next 4 seasons he would play 79 games for them.

 

He got selected by Charlotte F.C. in the expansion draft and then was traded to the Whitecaps.

 

He instantly became a regular in Vanni Sartini’s defensive structure. Starting most of the 29 appearances. He’s not just defensively good. Tristan’s height became a huge asset when it comes to set plays. Corners and freekicks you would see him going to the box. In his best season in 2025 he was able to score 5 goals. Really a well rounded defenceman who steps up in big games.

 

As the seasons went on the reliance on Tristan has gotten higher. So has his play. The Whitecaps have only let in 7 goals this season across 11 games. I get it’s a team effort but Tristan is the one consistently leading the back line and making the big tackles.

 

His effort doesn’t go unnoticed. In 2025 he won the MLS defender of the year. He was the first Whitecaps player to do that. And one of four Whitecaps to make the MLS all star team.

 

He has also gotten an opportunity to represent his home country. During the amazing season of 2025 he got the call up to the US men’s national team. And had the chance to play in two friendly matches.

 

As of May 13th has played every minute of each game he has started in the MLS. He wasn’t subbed on or taken off for a minute. That speaks to how important he is to keep the team steady.

 

I’m glad he is able to be a part of the Whitecaps and in my opinion our back 4 wouldn’t be as strong if we didn’t have him.

 

Our Defence King Tristan Blackmon.