Sam Gagner's journey in professional hockey began when he was selected sixth overall by the Edmonton Oilers in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft. Known for his playmaking abilities and hockey sense, Gagner quickly became a regular fixture in the Oilers' lineup. He made his NHL debut in the 2007-2008 season, where he showcased his potential by scoring 49 points in 79 games, a promising start for the young center.
Throughout his career, Gagner was recognized for his offensive skills, particularly his ability to set up plays and contribute on the power play. One of the most memorable moments of his career came on February 2, 2012, when he tied an Oilers franchise record by scoring eight points in a single game against the Chicago Blackhawks. This performance included four goals and four assists, making him the first player in over two decades to achieve such a feat in the NHL.
Gagner's tenure with the Oilers lasted until 2014, after which he was traded to the Tampa Bay Lightning. However, his time with the Lightning was short-lived, as he was subsequently traded to the Arizona Coyotes. During his stint with the Coyotes, Gagner continued to be a reliable offensive presence, contributing both goals and assists.
In 2015, Gagner signed with the Philadelphia Flyers, where he played for one season before moving to the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2016. His time with the Blue Jackets was marked by a resurgence in his performance, as he recorded 50 points in the 2016-2017 season, helping the team reach the playoffs.
Gagner's career took another turn when he signed with the Vancouver Canucks in 2017. However, after a season and a half, he found himself back with the Oilers following a trade in 2019. His return to Edmonton was welcomed by fans who remembered his earlier contributions to the team.
In the latter part of his career, Gagner played for the Detroit Red Wings, having been traded there in 2020. With the Red Wings, he continued to provide veteran leadership and experience to a young team. His role often involved mentoring younger players while still contributing on the ice.
Throughout his career, Gagner was known for his professionalism and ability to adapt to different roles and teams. His journey through various NHL teams highlighted his perseverance and skill in the highly competitive world of professional hockey. As his career progressed, Gagner's experience and knowledge of the game became valuable assets to the teams he played for, both on and off the ice.
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