Cam Atkinson, an American professional ice hockey player, has been known for his consistent performance and scoring ability in the National Hockey League (NHL). Born on June 5, 1989, in Riverside, Connecticut, Atkinson developed a passion for hockey at a young age. He honed his skills at Avon Old Farms, a preparatory school in Connecticut, before moving on to play college hockey at Boston College.
Atkinson's collegiate career was marked by impressive achievements, including helping Boston College win the NCAA Championship in 2010. His performance caught the attention of NHL scouts, and he was drafted by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the sixth round, 157th overall, in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft. After completing his college career, Atkinson joined the Blue Jackets organization, starting with their American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Springfield Falcons.
In the 2011-2012 season, Atkinson made his NHL debut with the Columbus Blue Jackets. He quickly established himself as a reliable goal scorer, known for his speed and agility on the ice. Over the years, Atkinson became a fan favorite in Columbus, admired for his work ethic and ability to deliver in crucial moments. His breakout season came in 2016-2017 when he scored 35 goals and tallied 62 points, earning him a spot in the NHL All-Star Game.
Throughout his tenure with the Blue Jackets, Atkinson consistently led the team in scoring and played a vital role in their offensive lineup. He was instrumental in helping Columbus reach the playoffs multiple times, including their historic first-round sweep of the Tampa Bay Lightning in the 2018-2019 season. Atkinson's ability to perform under pressure and contribute in high-stakes games made him a valuable asset to the team.
In 2021, Atkinson's career took a new turn when he was traded to the Philadelphia Flyers in exchange for Jakub Voracek. The move marked a new chapter for Atkinson, who brought his scoring prowess and veteran leadership to the Flyers' roster. Despite the challenges of adjusting to a new team, Atkinson continued to demonstrate his goal-scoring ability and remained a consistent offensive threat.
Off the ice, Atkinson has been involved in various charitable endeavors, including his work with the Force Network Fund, which supports military families. His commitment to giving back to the community has earned him respect both as a player and as a person.
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