Calvin de Haan, a Canadian professional ice hockey defenseman, began his NHL career with the New York Islanders. Drafted 12th overall in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft, de Haan's journey to the NHL was marked by his time in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) with the Oshawa Generals. His performance in the OHL showcased his potential as a reliable defenseman, leading to his selection by the Islanders.
De Haan made his NHL debut with the Islanders during the 2011-2012 season. Over the years, he developed a reputation for his defensive skills, particularly his shot-blocking ability and positional play. Despite facing challenges with injuries, de Haan remained a steady presence on the Islanders' blue line. His tenure with the team saw him gradually take on more responsibilities, becoming a regular fixture in their defensive lineup.
In 2018, de Haan signed a four-year contract with the Carolina Hurricanes as a free agent. His time with the Hurricanes further solidified his role as a dependable defenseman. He contributed to the team's defensive efforts, helping them reach the playoffs during his stint. However, injuries continued to be a recurring theme in his career, affecting his playing time.
After a season with the Hurricanes, de Haan was traded to the Chicago Blackhawks in 2019. With the Blackhawks, he continued to provide stability on the back end. His experience and defensive acumen were valuable assets to the team, particularly as they navigated a period of transition. De Haan's ability to read the game and make smart plays under pressure was appreciated by his coaches and teammates alike.
Throughout his career, de Haan was known for his work ethic and professionalism. He was often relied upon in penalty-killing situations and was trusted to handle tough defensive assignments. Despite the physical toll of the game, de Haan's perseverance allowed him to maintain a presence in the NHL for a decade.
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