Mikko Koivu, a Finnish ice hockey player, spent the majority of his career in the National Hockey League (NHL) with the Minnesota Wild. Born on March 12, 1983, in Turku, Finland, Koivu grew up in a hockey family, with his older brother Saku Koivu also having a successful NHL career. Mikko's journey in professional hockey began in Finland, where he played for TPS in the Finnish Liiga, honing his skills and gaining valuable experience.
In the 2001 NHL Entry Draft, the Minnesota Wild selected Koivu as the sixth overall pick. However, he continued to develop his game in Finland before making the transition to North America. Koivu joined the Wild for the 2005-2006 season, quickly establishing himself as a reliable center. His strong two-way play, leadership qualities, and ability to contribute offensively made him an integral part of the team.
Koivu's tenure with the Minnesota Wild was marked by consistency and leadership. In 2009, he was named the first permanent captain in the franchise's history, a role he held for over a decade. As captain, Koivu led by example, both on and off the ice, earning the respect of teammates, coaches, and fans alike. His ability to play in all situations, including power plays and penalty kills, made him a valuable asset to the team.
Throughout his career with the Wild, Koivu was known for his defensive prowess and playmaking abilities. He consistently ranked among the team's top scorers, reaching the 50-point mark in several seasons. His best offensive season came in 2009-2010 when he recorded 71 points, including 22 goals and 49 assists. Koivu's contributions were not limited to the regular season; he also played a crucial role in the playoffs, helping the Wild reach the postseason multiple times.
In addition to his NHL career, Koivu represented Finland in numerous international competitions. He played in several IIHF World Championships, earning multiple medals, including a gold in 2011. Koivu also represented Finland in the Winter Olympics, winning a silver medal in 2006 and a bronze in 2010. His international experience further solidified his reputation as a skilled and dependable player.
After 15 seasons with the Minnesota Wild, Koivu signed a one-year contract with the Columbus Blue Jackets for the 2020-2021 season. However, his time with the Blue Jackets was short-lived, as he announced his retirement from professional hockey in February 2021. Koivu left the game as the Wild's all-time leader in several statistical categories, including games played, assists, and points.
🏒