He played 127 games in the National Hockey League with the Nashville Predators, Vancouver Canucks, Boston Bruins, and Carolina Hurricanes between 2003 and 2009.

His unofficial role is that of an enforcer, evident from his 43 career NHL fights, including 17 in his rookie season.

Brookbank scored his first career NHL goal with the Canucks against Olaf Kolzig of the Washington Capitals on January 31, 2004 in a 6-1 victory.

Brookbank's younger brother Sheldon was also a professional ice hockey player who last played for the Cleveland Monsters of the AHL.

Leigh (Yorkton Terriers), Wade (Melville Millionaires), and Sheldon (Humboldt Broncos) are all Junior "A" alumni of the SJHL.