Ales Hemsky, a Czech-born right winger, embarked on his professional hockey journey when he was drafted 13th overall by the Edmonton Oilers in the 2001 NHL Entry Draft. Known for his speed and skillful puck handling, Hemsky quickly became an integral part of the Oilers' lineup. His NHL debut came in the 2002-2003 season, where he began to showcase his offensive talents.
Throughout his tenure with the Oilers, Hemsky was known for his ability to navigate through defenses and create scoring opportunities. One of his most memorable seasons was 2005-2006, when he played a crucial role in Edmonton's unexpected run to the Stanley Cup Finals. During the playoffs, Hemsky contributed with key goals and assists, helping the Oilers reach Game 7 against the Carolina Hurricanes, although they ultimately fell short of winning the championship.
Hemsky's time in Edmonton was marked by both individual achievements and challenges. He consistently put up solid numbers, often leading the team in points, but also faced injuries that sidelined him for significant periods. Despite these setbacks, Hemsky remained a fan favorite for his on-ice creativity and flair.
In March 2014, Hemsky was traded to the Ottawa Senators, where he finished the season with an impressive performance, tallying 17 points in 20 games. His stint in Ottawa was brief, as he entered free agency that summer and signed a three-year contract with the Dallas Stars. In Dallas, Hemsky continued to be a valuable asset, contributing both offensively and with his veteran presence.
Hemsky's career with the Stars was also marred by injuries, which limited his playing time. Nevertheless, he managed to reach the milestone of 500 career NHL points during his tenure with the team. After his contract with Dallas ended, Hemsky signed with the Montreal Canadiens for the 2017-2018 season. Unfortunately, his time in Montreal was cut short due to a concussion, which ultimately led to his retirement from professional hockey.
Internationally, Hemsky represented the Czech Republic in several tournaments, including the IIHF World Championships and the Winter Olympics. His international play further highlighted his skill and ability to perform on a global stage.
Ales Hemsky's career in the NHL spanned over 15 seasons, during which he played more than 800 games and accumulated over 570 points.
🏒