Niclas Hävelid, a Swedish defenseman, embarked on his professional hockey journey in the National Hockey League (NHL) after being drafted by the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim in the 1999 NHL Entry Draft. Selected in the third round as the 83rd overall pick, Hävelid brought his skills from the Swedish leagues to North America, where he would spend the majority of his career.
Hävelid's NHL debut came in the 2000-2001 season with the Mighty Ducks. Over the next few years, he established himself as a reliable defenseman, known for his steady play on the blue line. His tenure with the Ducks was marked by consistent performances, contributing both defensively and offensively when needed. During the 2002-2003 season, Hävelid played a crucial role in the Ducks' journey to the Stanley Cup Finals, where they ultimately fell to the New Jersey Devils. His defensive prowess was a key component of the team's playoff success that year.
In 2004, Hävelid was traded to the Atlanta Thrashers, where he continued to be a dependable presence on the ice. His time with the Thrashers saw him take on more responsibility, often being paired against the opposing team's top lines. Hävelid's ability to read the game and make smart decisions with the puck made him a valuable asset to the Thrashers' defensive corps.
Throughout his career, Hävelid was known for his calm demeanor and ability to remain composed under pressure. These traits were particularly evident during his international play. Representing Sweden, Hävelid participated in several international tournaments, including the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin, Italy. There, he was part of the Swedish national team that captured the gold medal, a highlight of his international career.
In 2009, Hävelid was traded to the New Jersey Devils, where he finished the NHL season. After his stint with the Devils, he returned to Sweden to continue his professional career in the Swedish Hockey League (SHL) with Linköping HC. His return to Sweden marked the end of his NHL career, but he continued to play at a high level in his home country.
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