He started out played junior and senior hockey in his hometown and junior with the University of Manitoba. Tom Cook began his professional hockey career at the age of 21, playing with the Tulsa Oilers in 1928-29. He played in 39 games, scoring 22 goals and 33 points. In 1929-30, Cook was elevated to the ranks of the NHL when he joined the Chicago Blackhawks. In 41 games, he contributed 14 goals and 30 points. The next season, Cook scored 29 points and helped the Blackhawks reach the Stanley Cup finals where they lost the championship to the Montreal Canadiens three-games-to-two.