Mike Eastwood's journey in professional hockey began when he was drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the fifth round, 91st overall, in the 1987 NHL Entry Draft. A native of Ottawa, Ontario, Eastwood honed his skills at Western Michigan University, where he played college hockey before making the leap to the NHL. His time in the league spanned over a decade, during which he played for several teams and became known for his role as a reliable center.
Eastwood made his NHL debut with the Toronto Maple Leafs during the 1991-1992 season. Over the next few years, he established himself as a dependable player, contributing both offensively and defensively. His tenure with the Maple Leafs lasted until 1995, when he was traded to the Winnipeg Jets. This move marked the beginning of a series of transitions between teams throughout his career.
After a brief stint with the Jets, Eastwood found himself with the Phoenix Coyotes, where he played from 1996 to 1999. His time with the Coyotes allowed him to further develop his skills and adapt to different playing styles. In 1999, Eastwood was traded to the New York Rangers, where he continued to demonstrate his abilities as a center. However, his stay in New York was short-lived, as he was soon traded to the St. Louis Blues.
Eastwood's period with the St. Louis Blues proved to be one of the more stable phases of his career. From 1999 to 2003, he played a significant number of games with the Blues, becoming a familiar face on the ice for the team. His role often involved taking crucial face-offs and providing depth to the team's lineup. Eastwood's experience and steady performance were assets to the Blues during his time there.
In the latter part of his career, Eastwood joined the Chicago Blackhawks for the 2003-2004 season. Although his time with the Blackhawks was relatively brief, he continued to contribute to the team with his veteran presence and understanding of the game. Following his season with Chicago, Eastwood retired from professional hockey.
Throughout his career, Eastwood was known for his work ethic and ability to adapt to various team dynamics. His journey through the NHL saw him play for six different teams, each time bringing his experience and skills to the forefront. While he may not have been the most high-profile player on the ice, his steady presence and reliability were valued by the teams he played for.
After retiring from professional play, Eastwood transitioned into a career in broadcasting, sharing his insights and knowledge of the game with a new audience. His post-playing career allowed him to remain connected to the sport he had dedicated much of his life to.
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