Matt Hunwick, an American defenseman, embarked on his professional hockey journey after being drafted by the Boston Bruins in the seventh round of the 2004 NHL Entry Draft. Hunwick honed his skills at the University of Michigan, where he played college hockey for the Wolverines. His tenure at Michigan was marked by steady development, which paved the way for his entry into the National Hockey League.
Hunwick made his NHL debut with the Boston Bruins during the 2007-2008 season. Over the next few seasons, he established himself as a reliable defenseman, known for his skating ability and defensive acumen. His time with the Bruins saw him participating in playoff games, including the 2009 Stanley Cup Playoffs, where he contributed to the team's efforts on the ice.
In November 2010, Hunwick was traded to the Colorado Avalanche. His stint with the Avalanche allowed him to further develop his game, as he took on more responsibilities and ice time. Hunwick's role with Colorado was primarily focused on defensive duties, and he became a steady presence on the blue line.
After his time with the Avalanche, Hunwick signed with the New York Rangers in 2014. During his season with the Rangers, he played a supporting role on defense, contributing to the team's depth. His performance with the Rangers led to a new opportunity with the Toronto Maple Leafs, where he signed as a free agent in 2015.
Hunwick's tenure with the Maple Leafs was marked by increased responsibility and leadership. He served as an alternate captain and was often paired with younger defensemen, providing guidance and stability. His experience was invaluable to the Maple Leafs' defensive corps, and he played a crucial role in the team's return to the playoffs in the 2016-2017 season.
In 2017, Hunwick signed with the Pittsburgh Penguins, joining a team that had just won back-to-back Stanley Cups. His time with the Penguins was characterized by his steady defensive play and ability to adapt to different roles as needed. Hunwick's experience was an asset to the Penguins as they navigated the challenges of maintaining their competitive edge.
Hunwick's career took another turn when he was traded to the Buffalo Sabres in 2018. Unfortunately, his time with the Sabres was marred by injuries, which limited his ability to contribute on the ice. Despite these setbacks, Hunwick remained a respected figure in the locker room, known for his professionalism and work ethic.
Throughout his NHL career, Matt Hunwick played over 500 regular-season games, demonstrating consistency and reliability as a defenseman. His journey through various teams highlighted his adaptability and ability to contribute in different environments. Hunwick's career came to a close after the 2018-2019 season, as injuries ultimately led to his retirement from professional hockey.
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