Dixon Ward, a Canadian ice hockey player, spent a decade in the National Hockey League (NHL) where he played as a right winger. Born on September 23, 1968, in Leduc, Alberta, Ward's journey to professional hockey began in college. He played for the University of North Dakota, where he honed his skills and caught the attention of NHL scouts.
Ward was drafted 128th overall by the Vancouver Canucks in the 1988 NHL Entry Draft. However, he didn't immediately jump to the NHL, opting instead to continue developing his game in college. His professional career officially began in the early 1990s when he joined the Canucks. During his time with Vancouver, Ward demonstrated his ability to contribute offensively, though he spent much of his early career moving between the NHL and the minor leagues.
In 1993, Ward was traded to the Los Angeles Kings, where he continued to develop his game. His tenure with the Kings was relatively short, and he soon found himself on the move again, this time to the Toronto Maple Leafs. With the Maple Leafs, Ward began to find more stability, playing a more regular role on the team. His time in Toronto allowed him to further establish himself as a reliable player in the league.
Ward's career took another turn when he joined the Buffalo Sabres in the mid-1990s. It was with the Sabres that he experienced some of his most memorable moments in the NHL. Ward played a crucial role in the Sabres' playoff runs, including their journey to the Stanley Cup Finals in 1999. Although the Sabres ultimately fell to the Dallas Stars, Ward's performance during the playoffs was noteworthy. His ability to perform under pressure and contribute in critical games was evident during this period.
After his stint with the Sabres, Ward continued his NHL career with the Boston Bruins. His time in Boston was marked by consistent play, as he brought experience and depth to the team's roster. Ward's final NHL stop was with the New York Rangers, where he played before retiring from professional hockey.
Throughout his NHL career, Ward was known for his offensive skills and his ability to play in various situations. He was a player who could be relied upon to contribute both in regular season games and in the playoffs. His career statistics include over 500 NHL games played, with a respectable number of goals and assists.
After retiring from professional play, Ward transitioned into a role off the ice, contributing to the sport in different capacities. His post-playing career included involvement in player development and other hockey-related activities, allowing him to stay connected to the game he spent so many years playing.
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