Shaun Van Allen, a Canadian professional ice hockey player, spent over a decade in the National Hockey League (NHL), where he played as a center. Born on August 29, 1967, in Calgary, Alberta, Van Allen's journey to the NHL began in the Western Hockey League (WHL) with the Saskatoon Blades. His performance in junior hockey caught the attention of NHL scouts, leading to his selection by the Edmonton Oilers in the 1987 NHL Entry Draft, picked 105th overall in the fifth round.
Van Allen's NHL career officially began with the Edmonton Oilers, where he played parts of three seasons. Although his time with the Oilers was brief, it provided him with the experience needed to establish himself in the league. He then moved to the Ottawa Senators, where he found a more stable role. During his tenure with the Senators, Van Allen became known for his defensive skills and ability to contribute to the team's penalty-killing unit. His time in Ottawa was marked by consistent play, and he became a reliable presence on the ice.
After his stint with the Senators, Van Allen joined the Anaheim Mighty Ducks. His role with the Ducks was similar to his previous teams, focusing on defensive responsibilities and supporting the team's younger players. Van Allen's experience and steady play were valuable assets to the Ducks during his time there.
Van Allen later returned to the Ottawa Senators, where he continued to be a dependable player. His second tenure with the Senators further solidified his reputation as a hardworking and reliable center. He then moved to the Dallas Stars, where he played for a brief period before returning to the Senators once more to finish his NHL career.
Throughout his career, Van Allen was known for his work ethic and team-first mentality. He played in over 700 NHL games, scoring 269 points, including 86 goals and 183 assists. While not a prolific scorer, his contributions were often seen in his defensive play and ability to support his teammates on and off the ice.
After retiring from professional hockey, Van Allen transitioned into coaching and broadcasting. He became an assistant coach for the Carleton University Ravens men's hockey team, sharing his knowledge and experience with the next generation of players. His involvement in hockey continued through various media roles, where he provided analysis and commentary on the sport.
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