Kyle Turris, a Canadian professional ice hockey player, began his NHL career after being selected third overall by the Phoenix Coyotes in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft. Turris, a native of New Westminster, British Columbia, had already shown promise during his time with the Burnaby Express in the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL), where he was named the league's MVP in 2007. His performance in the BCHL and his subsequent play at the University of Wisconsin made him a highly anticipated prospect.
Turris made his NHL debut with the Coyotes in the 2008-2009 season. Over the next few years, he split his time between the NHL and the American Hockey League (AHL), honing his skills and gaining valuable experience. His tenure with the Coyotes, however, was marked by contract disputes, leading to a trade request. In December 2011, Turris was traded to the Ottawa Senators, a move that would become a turning point in his career.
With the Senators, Turris found a more stable role and began to flourish as a center. He quickly became an integral part of the team's offense, known for his playmaking abilities and scoring touch. During the 2012-2013 season, Turris played a crucial role in helping the Senators reach the playoffs, contributing significantly in both regular season and postseason play. His performance in Ottawa solidified his reputation as a reliable center in the league.
Turris continued to be a consistent performer for the Senators over the next few seasons. In the 2014-2015 season, he achieved a career-high 64 points, demonstrating his ability to contribute offensively. His leadership qualities were also recognized, as he often served as an alternate captain for the team. Turris' time in Ottawa was marked by several playoff appearances, where he consistently delivered strong performances.
In November 2017, Turris was involved in a three-team trade that sent him to the Nashville Predators. His arrival in Nashville was met with high expectations, as the Predators were looking to bolster their lineup for a deep playoff run. Turris initially fit well with the team, providing depth at the center position and contributing both offensively and defensively. However, his time in Nashville was mixed, with fluctuating performance levels and injuries affecting his play.
After three seasons with the Predators, Turris was bought out of his contract in October 2020. Shortly thereafter, he signed with the Edmonton Oilers, seeking a fresh start and an opportunity to revitalize his career. In Edmonton, Turris took on a more supportive role, providing veteran presence and experience to a young Oilers team. Despite facing challenges, including limited ice time and injuries, Turris remained a respected figure in the locker room.
Throughout his career, Turris also represented Canada on the international stage. He played for Team Canada at the World Junior Championships and later at the IIHF World Championships, where he helped the team secure a gold medal in 2012. His international experience further highlighted his abilities and his commitment to the sport.
In 2022, Kyle Turris announced his retirement from professional hockey, concluding a career that spanned over a decade in the NHL. Following his retirement, Turris transitioned to a role off the ice, joining the Coquitlam Express of the BCHL as a Special Advisor to the General Manager and a player development coach. His post-playing career endeavors reflect his ongoing connection to the sport and his desire to contribute to the development of young players.
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