Oliver Ekman-Larsson, a Swedish defenseman, became a well-known name in the National Hockey League (NHL) through his tenure with the Arizona Coyotes and later the Vancouver Canucks. Born on July 17, 1991, in Karlskrona, Sweden, Ekman-Larsson was drafted sixth overall by the Phoenix Coyotes in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft. His journey in the NHL began in earnest during the 2010-2011 season when he made his debut with the Coyotes.
Ekman-Larsson quickly established himself as a reliable defenseman, known for his offensive capabilities and smooth skating. His ability to read the game and contribute to both ends of the ice made him a valuable asset to his team. Over the years, he became a staple on the Coyotes' blue line, often leading the team in ice time and playing in all situations, including power plays and penalty kills.
During his time with the Coyotes, Ekman-Larsson consistently put up impressive numbers for a defenseman. He reached the 20-goal mark in the 2014-2015 season, showcasing his offensive prowess. His performance earned him recognition as one of the top defensemen in the league, and he was often in the conversation for the Norris Trophy, awarded to the NHL's best defenseman.
In addition to his offensive skills, Ekman-Larsson was known for his leadership qualities. He was named the captain of the Coyotes in 2018, a role he held until his departure from the team. As captain, he led by example on and off the ice, guiding a young team through rebuilding phases and helping to develop the next generation of players.
In 2021, Ekman-Larsson's career took a new turn when he was traded to the Vancouver Canucks. The trade marked a significant change for both Ekman-Larsson and the Coyotes, as he had been a central figure in Arizona for over a decade. With the Canucks, he continued to bring his experience and skill to the ice, contributing to the team's defensive core.
Internationally, Ekman-Larsson represented Sweden in various tournaments, including the IIHF World Championships and the Winter Olympics. He was part of the Swedish team that won the gold medal at the 2017 IIHF World Championship, further cementing his status as a top-tier defenseman on the global stage.
Throughout his career, Ekman-Larsson was known for his consistency and ability to perform under pressure. His style of play, characterized by strong defensive positioning and an offensive touch, made him a valuable player for any team he played for. As his career progressed, he continued to adapt and evolve, maintaining his status as a respected defenseman in the league.
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