Craig Rivet, a Canadian defenseman, embarked on his professional hockey journey when he was drafted by the Montreal Canadiens in the third round, 68th overall, in the 1992 NHL Entry Draft. Born in North Bay, Ontario, Rivet honed his skills in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) with the Kingston Frontenacs, where he developed a reputation for his solid defensive play and leadership qualities.
Rivet made his NHL debut with the Canadiens during the 1994-1995 season. Over the years, he became a reliable presence on the blue line for Montreal, known for his physical style of play and ability to contribute offensively when needed. His tenure with the Canadiens spanned over a decade, during which he played in more than 700 games and served as an alternate captain, reflecting his role as a leader both on and off the ice.
In 2007, Rivet's long association with the Canadiens came to an end when he was traded to the San Jose Sharks. The move to San Jose marked a new chapter in his career, and he quickly adapted to his new team. Rivet's experience and steady play helped bolster the Sharks' defense, and he was named team captain for the 2008-2009 season, a testament to his leadership abilities and the respect he commanded in the locker room.
After his stint with the Sharks, Rivet was traded to the Buffalo Sabres in 2008. He continued to serve as a captain, leading the Sabres with his characteristic grit and determination. Rivet's time in Buffalo was marked by his commitment to the team's success and his role as a mentor to younger players.
In the latter stages of his career, Rivet was claimed off waivers by the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2011. Although his time with the Blue Jackets was brief, he brought veteran experience to the team and continued to play with the same tenacity that had defined his career.
Rivet's professional journey concluded after the 2010-2011 season. Over the course of his NHL career, he played in over 900 regular-season games, amassing more than 250 points. His career was characterized by his leadership, physical play, and ability to perform under pressure, earning him respect from teammates and opponents alike.
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