Michael Blunden, a Canadian professional ice hockey player, spent much of his career navigating the competitive landscape of the National Hockey League (NHL) and the American Hockey League (AHL). Born on December 15, 1986, in Toronto, Ontario, Blunden was drafted 43rd overall by the Chicago Blackhawks in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft. His journey through professional hockey was characterized by his role as a reliable right winger, known for his physical play and work ethic.
Blunden's NHL career began with the Chicago Blackhawks, where he made his debut in the 2006-2007 season. However, his time with the Blackhawks was short-lived, as he was traded to the Columbus Blue Jackets in January 2008. With the Blue Jackets, Blunden found more opportunities to showcase his skills, playing parts of three seasons with the team. Despite limited ice time, he was recognized for his ability to bring energy and grit to the lineup.
In 2010, Blunden was traded to the Tampa Bay Lightning, where he continued to split his time between the NHL and the AHL. His tenure with the Lightning organization saw him playing for their AHL affiliate, the Norfolk Admirals, and later the Syracuse Crunch. During the 2011-2012 season, Blunden was part of the Norfolk Admirals team that won the Calder Cup, the AHL championship, marking a highlight in his career.
Blunden's NHL journey continued with a move to the Montreal Canadiens in 2011. Over the next few years, he played intermittently for the Canadiens, while also spending significant time with their AHL affiliate, the Hamilton Bulldogs. His role often involved stepping in as a depth player, providing the team with a physical presence and veteran experience.
In 2014, Blunden returned to the Tampa Bay Lightning organization, where he once again played for both the NHL team and their AHL affiliate. His leadership qualities were recognized during his time with the Syracuse Crunch, where he served as team captain. Blunden's ability to mentor younger players and contribute both on and off the ice was valued by the organization.
Blunden's professional career also included a stint with the Ottawa Senators, beginning in 2016. He played primarily for their AHL affiliate, the Binghamton Senators, and later the Belleville Senators, continuing to be a steady presence in the league. His experience and leadership were assets to the teams he played for, particularly in guiding younger players through the rigors of professional hockey.
Throughout his career, Blunden was known for his physical style of play, often taking on the role of an enforcer. His willingness to engage in the physical aspects of the game made him a respected teammate and a challenging opponent. Despite not being a high-scoring forward, his contributions were valued in the locker room and on the ice.
Blunden's professional hockey career spanned over a decade, during which he played for several teams across the NHL and AHL.
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