Jamie Heward's journey through the world of professional hockey is marked by a career that spanned several teams and leagues, showcasing his skills as a defenseman. Born on March 30, 1971, in Regina, Saskatchewan, Heward began his path to professional hockey in the Western Hockey League (WHL) with the Regina Pats. His performance there caught the attention of NHL scouts, leading to his selection by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the first round of the 1989 NHL Entry Draft.
Heward's NHL debut came with the Toronto Maple Leafs during the 1995-1996 season. Although his time with the Leafs was brief, it marked the beginning of his NHL career. He later joined the Nashville Predators, where he played during their inaugural season in 1998-1999. His tenure with the Predators allowed him to establish himself as a reliable defenseman, contributing both offensively and defensively.
In the following years, Heward's career took him to several NHL teams, including the New York Islanders, Columbus Blue Jackets, and Washington Capitals. His ability to adapt to different playing styles and team dynamics was evident as he moved between these franchises. During his time with the Capitals, Heward achieved career-high statistics, demonstrating his capability to contribute to the team's efforts on the ice.
Beyond the NHL, Heward also spent time in the American Hockey League (AHL) and European leagues. His AHL stints included playing for teams like the St. John's Maple Leafs and the Philadelphia Phantoms, where he continued to hone his skills and provide veteran leadership. Additionally, Heward ventured overseas to play in the Swiss National League A with Genève-Servette HC, further broadening his hockey experience.
Heward's career also included representing Canada on the international stage. He participated in the 2003 IIHF World Championship, where he helped the Canadian national team secure a gold medal. This achievement highlighted his ability to perform at a high level in international competition.
After retiring from professional play, Heward transitioned into coaching and player development roles. He served as an assistant coach for various teams, including the Swift Current Broncos in the WHL and the Vancouver Giants. His post-playing career allowed him to share his knowledge and experience with younger players, contributing to their development in the sport.
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