Andrej Meszaros, a Slovak professional ice hockey player, spent a substantial portion of his career in the National Hockey League (NHL). Born on October 13, 1985, in Povazska Bystrica, Czechoslovakia, Meszaros began his journey in hockey at a young age, eventually making his way to North America to further his career.
Meszaros was drafted 23rd overall by the Ottawa Senators in the 2004 NHL Entry Draft. He made his NHL debut with the Senators in the 2005-2006 season, quickly establishing himself as a reliable defenseman. During his rookie season, he played in all 82 games, recording 39 points, which included 10 goals and 29 assists. His performance earned him a spot on the NHL All-Rookie Team, highlighting his potential as a young defenseman in the league.
After three seasons with Ottawa, Meszaros was traded to the Tampa Bay Lightning in August 2008. His time with the Lightning was marked by a significant contract, as he signed a six-year deal worth $24 million. However, his performance in Tampa Bay was hampered by injuries, limiting his ability to consistently contribute to the team. Despite these challenges, Meszaros continued to be a steady presence on the blue line when healthy.
In 2010, Meszaros was traded to the Philadelphia Flyers, where he experienced a resurgence in his career. During the 2010-2011 season, he played 81 games and recorded 32 points, including 8 goals and 24 assists. His efforts were recognized when he was awarded the Barry Ashbee Trophy, given to the Flyers' best defenseman. Meszaros' tenure with the Flyers, however, was again marred by injuries, which affected his ability to maintain a consistent presence on the ice.
The Boston Bruins acquired Meszaros in March 2014, seeking to bolster their defensive lineup for the playoffs. He played 14 regular-season games with the Bruins, contributing 5 points. Although his time in Boston was brief, Meszaros provided valuable depth to the team's defense during their playoff run.
Following his stint with the Bruins, Meszaros signed with the Buffalo Sabres for the 2014-2015 season. He played 60 games with the Sabres, recording 14 points. Despite the team's struggles that season, Meszaros brought veteran experience to a young roster.
Internationally, Meszaros represented Slovakia in several tournaments, including the Winter Olympics and the IIHF World Championships. His participation on the international stage showcased his skills and dedication to his national team, contributing to Slovakia's efforts in various competitions.
After his time in the NHL, Meszaros continued his professional career in Europe, playing in leagues such as the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) and the Czech Extraliga. His experience and leadership were valuable assets to the teams he joined, allowing him to extend his career beyond the NHL.
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