Joel Ward, a Canadian professional ice hockey player, is best remembered for his time in the National Hockey League (NHL) where he played as a right winger. Born on December 2, 1980, in North York, Ontario, Ward's journey to the NHL was unconventional. Unlike many of his peers, he was never drafted. Instead, he honed his skills in college hockey, playing for the University of Prince Edward Island Panthers in the Canadian Interuniversity Sport (CIS) league. His performance there caught the attention of NHL scouts, leading to his entry into professional hockey.
Ward began his NHL career with the Minnesota Wild, signing as a free agent in 2006. He made his NHL debut during the 2006-2007 season. Although his time with the Wild was brief, it provided him with the experience needed to establish himself in the league. After two seasons with Minnesota, Ward signed with the Nashville Predators in 2008. It was with the Predators that he began to gain recognition for his strong two-way play and ability to perform in high-pressure situations.
During his tenure with Nashville, Ward became known for his playoff performances. In the 2010-2011 season, he played a crucial role in helping the Predators reach the second round of the playoffs for the first time in franchise history. Ward's ability to elevate his game during the postseason earned him a reputation as a clutch player. His standout moment came when he scored the game-winning goal in overtime against the Anaheim Ducks in the first round of the 2011 playoffs.
In 2011, Ward signed a four-year contract with the Washington Capitals. His time with the Capitals further solidified his reputation as a reliable forward. Ward was part of a team that consistently made playoff appearances, and he continued to deliver important performances in critical games. One of his most memorable moments with Washington came during the 2012 Stanley Cup playoffs when he scored the series-winning goal in overtime against the Boston Bruins in Game 7 of the first round.
Ward's career continued with the San Jose Sharks, where he signed in 2015. He played three seasons with the Sharks, contributing both offensively and defensively. In the 2015-2016 season, Ward was instrumental in helping the Sharks reach the Stanley Cup Final for the first time in the team's history. Although the Sharks ultimately fell to the Pittsburgh Penguins, Ward's performance throughout the playoffs was commendable.
After his stint with the Sharks, Ward's playing career came to a close. Over the course of his NHL career, he played in over 700 regular-season games and scored more than 300 points. Known for his work ethic and ability to perform under pressure, Ward left a lasting impression on teammates and fans alike.
Beyond his on-ice achievements, Ward is also recognized for his contributions to the community and his efforts to promote diversity in hockey. As one of the few Black players in the NHL during his career, he has been an advocate for inclusivity in the sport. His journey from undrafted college player to NHL regular serves as an inspiration to many aspiring hockey players.
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