Eric Boulton's journey in professional hockey began when he was drafted by the New York Rangers in the ninth round of the 1994 NHL Entry Draft. Although he never played for the Rangers, his career took off when he signed with the Buffalo Sabres. Boulton made his NHL debut with the Sabres during the 2000-2001 season, quickly establishing himself as a tough and gritty player known for his physical style of play.
Throughout his career, Boulton was recognized for his role as an enforcer, a player who was not afraid to drop the gloves and stand up for his teammates. His time with the Sabres lasted until 2004, during which he became a fan favorite for his willingness to engage in fights and protect his fellow players. After leaving Buffalo, Boulton signed with the Atlanta Thrashers, where he continued to play a similar role.
Boulton's tenure with the Thrashers spanned several seasons, and he became known for his hard-hitting presence on the ice. He scored his first NHL hat trick on December 18, 2010, against the New Jersey Devils, a rare feat for a player primarily known for his physicality rather than his scoring ability. This achievement highlighted his ability to contribute offensively when needed.
In 2011, Boulton joined the New Jersey Devils, where he played for one season. His time with the Devils was marked by his continued role as an enforcer, providing toughness and grit to the team's lineup. Following his stint in New Jersey, Boulton signed with the New York Islanders in 2012. He spent the remainder of his NHL career with the Islanders, where he continued to be a veteran presence both on and off the ice.
Boulton's career in the NHL spanned over 15 years, during which he played in more than 600 games. Known for his toughness and willingness to stand up for his teammates, he accumulated over 1,400 penalty minutes. While his role was primarily defensive and physical, he occasionally contributed offensively, tallying a modest number of goals and assists throughout his career.
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