Zac Rinaldo, known for his physical style of play, embarked on his professional hockey journey when he was drafted by the Philadelphia Flyers in the sixth round of the 2008 NHL Entry Draft. His reputation as an enforcer on the ice began to take shape during his time in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) with the Mississauga St. Michael's Majors and the London Knights. Rinaldo's aggressive play and willingness to drop the gloves made him a player to watch, and he quickly became known for his role as a tough, gritty forward.
Rinaldo made his NHL debut with the Flyers in the 2011-2012 season. His role on the team was clear from the start: to bring energy and physicality to the lineup. Throughout his time with the Flyers, Rinaldo was often tasked with agitating opponents and providing a spark for his team. His style of play, while effective in its purpose, also led to multiple suspensions and fines, as the NHL sought to curb dangerous hits and protect player safety.
After four seasons with Philadelphia, Rinaldo was traded to the Boston Bruins in 2015. His tenure with the Bruins was marked by similar themes, as he continued to play the role of an enforcer. However, his time in Boston was short-lived, and he was placed on waivers in 2016. Rinaldo then spent time with the Providence Bruins in the American Hockey League (AHL) before being traded to the Arizona Coyotes.
With the Coyotes, Rinaldo continued to bring his trademark physicality to the ice. His stint in Arizona was followed by a brief period with the Nashville Predators, where he signed a one-year contract in 2018. Rinaldo's role remained consistent, as he was primarily utilized in a fourth-line capacity, tasked with providing energy and toughness.
In 2019, Rinaldo signed with the Calgary Flames, where he played a limited number of games. His time with the Flames was characterized by his usual aggressive play, but he also faced challenges in securing a regular spot in the lineup. Despite these challenges, Rinaldo's presence was felt whenever he took to the ice, as he continued to play with the same intensity that had defined his career.
Rinaldo's career also included a stint with the Columbus Blue Jackets organization, although he did not play any games for the NHL team. Instead, he spent time with their AHL affiliate, the Cleveland Monsters. Throughout his career, Rinaldo was known for his willingness to stand up for his teammates and engage in physical play, often drawing the ire of opponents and officials alike.
While Rinaldo's career may not have been defined by scoring prowess or offensive achievements, his role as an enforcer was clear.
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