Mikael Granlund, a Finnish professional ice hockey player, has been known for his skillful playmaking and versatility on the ice. Born on February 26, 1992, in Oulu, Finland, Granlund began his professional career in the Finnish SM-liiga with HIFK, where he quickly gained attention for his exceptional hockey sense and creativity.
Granlund was drafted ninth overall by the Minnesota Wild in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. He made his NHL debut with the Wild during the 2012-2013 season. Granlund's transition to the NHL was closely watched, as he was already a well-regarded player in Finland, particularly after his famous lacrosse-style goal in the 2011 IIHF World Championship, which became a viral sensation.
In his early years with the Wild, Granlund played primarily as a center, but his adaptability allowed him to be effective on the wing as well. Over time, he developed into a reliable offensive contributor for Minnesota. During the 2016-2017 season, Granlund had a breakout year, leading the team in scoring with 69 points in 81 games. His performance that season earned him a three-year contract extension with the Wild.
Granlund's tenure with the Wild came to an end in February 2019 when he was traded to the Nashville Predators in exchange for Kevin Fiala. The trade was part of a strategic move by both teams to address their respective needs. With the Predators, Granlund continued to demonstrate his playmaking abilities and became an integral part of their forward group.
Throughout his time in Nashville, Granlund was utilized in various roles, showcasing his ability to adapt to different line combinations and situations. He was known for his hockey intelligence, vision on the ice, and ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates. Granlund's contributions were not limited to the regular season; he also played a role in the Predators' playoff campaigns.
Internationally, Granlund has represented Finland in numerous tournaments, including the World Junior Championships, World Championships, and the Winter Olympics. His international experience has further solidified his reputation as a skilled and reliable player on the global stage.
In the latter part of his career, Granlund continued to be a valuable asset for the Predators, providing veteran leadership and experience to a team with a mix of young talent and seasoned players. His ability to perform consistently in various roles made him a respected figure in the locker room and among fans.
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