Matt Hendricks, born on June 17, 1981, in Blaine, Minnesota, embarked on his professional hockey journey after playing college hockey at St. Cloud State University. His path to the NHL was not straightforward, as he spent several years honing his skills in the minor leagues. Hendricks was drafted 131st overall by the Nashville Predators in the 2000 NHL Entry Draft, but he did not play for the team. Instead, he began his professional career with the Milwaukee Admirals in the American Hockey League (AHL).
Hendricks' NHL debut came with the Colorado Avalanche during the 2008-2009 season. His gritty playing style and willingness to engage physically made him a valuable asset on the ice. Although he was not known for his scoring ability, Hendricks contributed in other ways, such as penalty killing and providing energy to his team.
In 2010, Hendricks signed with the Washington Capitals, where he became a fan favorite due to his hard-nosed play and leadership qualities. During his time with the Capitals, he was often utilized in a checking role and was known for his ability to win face-offs and block shots. Hendricks also participated in the Capitals' playoff runs, providing depth and experience to the roster.
Hendricks' career continued with the Nashville Predators, where he signed in 2013. His tenure with the Predators was marked by his consistent effort and ability to mentor younger players. In 2014, he was traded to the Edmonton Oilers, where he continued to play a similar role, bringing veteran presence and toughness to the team.
In 2017, Hendricks joined the Winnipeg Jets, further extending his NHL career. His time with the Jets was characterized by his leadership both on and off the ice, as he helped guide the team to a deep playoff run in the 2017-2018 season. Hendricks' final NHL season was with the Minnesota Wild, where he played in the 2018-2019 season before retiring from professional hockey.
Throughout his career, Hendricks was known for his work ethic and team-first mentality. He played over 600 NHL games, scoring 54 goals and 59 assists.
🏒