The 2012–13 NHL season was an exciting one for hockey fans around the world. The 96th season of operation (95th season of play) of the National Hockey League (NHL) started on January 19, 2013, and featured some of the most thrilling moments of the entire season.
This season was marked by an unexpected delay from its original October 11, 2012, start date due to a lockout of players, but after the two sides reached a deal, the season was able to continue on with a full 82-game schedule.
Despite the delay, fans were treated to some of the most thrilling hockey seen in recent years, with each team fighting for the chance to hoist the Stanley Cup at the end of the season.
1. Sidney Crosby
Pittsburgh Penguins
Career
- 2001–02: Truro Bearcats
- 2002–03: Shattuck St. Mary's
- 2003–04: Rimouski Océanic
- 2004–05: Rimouski Océanic
- 2005–06: Pittsburgh Penguins
- 2006–07: Pittsburgh Penguins
Sidney Crosby is a Canadian professional ice hockey player who currently plays with the Pittsburgh Penguins in the National Hockey League (NHL).
He was drafted first overall by the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2005 and has won four consecutive Stanley Cups with them, making him one of only six players to have three or more championship titles with one team.
Crosby also holds numerous NHL records, including most points (1,087), most assists (927), and most goals (801). In 2014-15 he led the league in scoring for a record seventh time and was awarded his third Hart Memorial Trophy as MVP of the NHL season.
Crosby is considered to be one of the greatest players ever and has been honored with many accolades including being named Sportsman of The Year twice by The Globe And Mail newspaper.
Winning an Olympic gold medal as part of Canada's national men's ice hockey team at Sochi 2014, becoming captain of Team Canada for two periods in 2018.
PyeongChang Winter Olympics where they reached their fourth consecutive final but lost to Sweden 5-4 after leading 3-0 in shots on goal Sidney Crosby - Wikipedia Sidney Crosby was born on December 7th, 1987 in Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia.
He is the son of Mario and Kathy Crosby. Sidney started playing hockey at a very young age and quickly became one of Canada's top prospects.
In 2005 he was drafted first overall by the Pittsburgh Penguins. Sidney has won three Stanley Cups with the Penguins (2007, 2009, 2016).
He also played on Team Canada for the 2010 Winter Olympics where they were runners-up to Sweden. Sidney is considered one of the greatest players in NHL history and will be remembered as one of Pittsburg’s all-time greats.
Also Played For: stanley cup, 2020–21 nhl season
2. Steven Stamkos
Tampa Bay Lightning
Career
- NHL team: Tampa Bay Lightning
- National team: Canada
- NHL Draft: 1st overall, 2008
- Tampa Bay Lightning
Stamkos is a talented and skilled hockey player who has been able to achieve great success with the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Stamkos was born in Canada but grew up playing hockey for minor league teams before being drafted by the Lightning in 2008.
He has won multiple awards, including two Conn Smythe Trophies as MVP of the playoffs, during his time with the Lighting.
Stamkos is set to become an unrestricted free agent at the end of this season and there are many rumors linking him to a move away from Tampa Bay.
However, he has yet to confirm any plans and will most likely decide what route he takes later this year.
Stamkos is one of the most exciting players in NHL history and his ability on the ice guarantees that he will continue achieving great things for years to come.
Stamkos was the first overall draft pick in 2008 by the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Stamkos has had a successful career with the Lightning, leading them to two Stanley Cup appearances and one Eastern Conference championship.
Stamkos is also a key member of Canada's national team, having won gold at both the 2014 Olympics and World Championships. He will be an important player for years to come as he continues to develop his skills on ice.
Also Played For: 2019–20 nhl season, 2018–19 nhl season
3. Patrice Bergeron
Boston Bruins
Career
- NHL team: Boston Bruins
- Former teams: HC Lugano
- National team: Canada
- NHL Draft: 45th overall, 2003
Bergeron is a three-time Stanley Cup champion with the Boston Bruins.
Bergeron has been nominated for the Hart Memorial Trophy as the NHL's most valuable player on five occasions, winning it in 2011 and 2013.
He finished second in voting for the Art Ross Trophy as the leading scorer in 2017–18. Bergeron was drafted by the Quebec Nordiques in 2001, but he never played for them because they were moved to Denver before he could make his debut with them.
The Bruins acquired him in a trade with Quebec shortly after the 2002–03 season, and he has been a fixture of their lineup ever since aside from one year when he missed half of 2012–13 due to injury (he also missed much of 2009–10).
On September 25th, 2018 Patrice Bergeron announced his retirement from professional hockey following 17 seasons of playing 1,257 games scoring 801 points and averaging 0:43 per game.
Including 181 goals and 149 assists over that time span making him the only player ever to score more than 900 career points while averaging under forty minutes played per game Patrice Bergeron has spent his entire professional career with the Boston Bruins and is one of the most consistent players in the NHL.
He was drafted 45th overall by Boston in 2003 and has since emerged as one of their key contributors on both offense and defense.
Patrice Bergeron is a two-time winner of the Selke Trophy ( awarded to the best defensive forward in hockey), as well as being named to five all-star teams throughout his career.
In 2018 he became just the third player in league history to record at least 1,500 points and 500 assists for his career - joining Wayne Gretzky and Gordie Howe Jr., among others.
Patrice Bergeron will be an unrestricted free agent at the season's end, but there are no indications that he plans to retire from playing hockey anytime soon.
Also Played For: 2017–18 nhl season, nhl
4. Evgeni Malkin
Pittsburgh Penguins
Career
- NHL team: Pittsburgh Penguins
- Former teams: Metallurg Magnitogorsk
- National team: Russia
- NHL Draft: 2nd overall, 2004
- Pittsburgh Penguins
Malkin was drafted by the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2005 and has been one of their top players ever since. Malkin won the Stanley Cup with the Penguins in 2009, 2012, and 2017.
He also played on Russia's gold medal-winning teams at the 2010 Winter Olympics and 2014 Winter Olympics. Malkin is a two-time Hart Trophy winner (the NHL's most prestigious award) as well as a three-time Art Ross Trophyist (the league’s leading scorer).
In 2018 he became only the fourth player in history to score 500 goals during his career, joining Wayne Gretzky, Sidney Crosby, and Gordie Howe.
On 31 January 2019 Evgeni Malkin announced that he would be retiring from professional hockey after 19 seasons with the Pittsburgh Penguins Evgeni Malkin is a Russian-born professional ice hockey player who has played for the Pittsburgh Penguins of the National Hockey League (NHL) since 2003.
He was drafted second overall by the Penguins in 2004 and won two Stanley Cups with them in 2009 and 2016.
Malkin also represented Russia at both the World Cup of Hockey in 2013 and the Olympic Games twice, winning a gold medal in 2014. In 2018, he announced his retirement from professional hockey after 18 seasons with Pittsburgh.
Evgeni Malkin is widely considered to be one of the best players ever to play in the NHL and ranks fifth all-time on the points scored list behind only Wayne Gretzky, Gordie Howe, Mario Lemieux and Mark Messier.
Also Played For: pittsburgh penguins
5. Pavel Datsyuk
Center
Career
- National team: Russia
- NHL Draft: 171st overall, 1998
- Detroit Red Wings
Pavel Datsyuk is a Russian professional ice hockey player. He previously played for the Detroit Red Wings and was their captain from 2009 to 2015. Pavel Datsyuk was born on July 20th, 1978 in Sverdlovsk, Russia.
His family relocated to Yekaterinburg when he was three years old.
While playing junior hockey with HC Sibir Novosibirsk, Pavel quickly developed into one of the best players in his league and attracted interest from several NHL teams including the Detroit Red Wings who signed him as an undrafted free agent in 1998.
After spending two seasons with the Grand Rapids Griffins, Pavel made his debut with the Detroit Redwings during the 2001-02 season where he spent most of his time playing alongside fellow countryman Vladimir Konstantinov on what would become known as "The Triplets Line".
In 2006-07 season, after recording 83 points (37 goals and 50 assists) over 82 games for Detroit's American Hockey League affiliate team Adirondack Phantoms, Pavel won both rookies of year honors as well as The MasterCard Memorial Cup awarded by Canadian Professional Ice Hockey League (CPIHL).
Following a successful 2007-08 campaign which saw him score 44 goals and 87 points over 80 games for Detroit - second only behind teammate Nicklas Lidstrom.
Datsyuk captured both the scoring title and the Norris Trophy award as top defenseman in NHL respectively becoming only third player ever to win both awards within same calendar year; joining Gordie Howe (1952) & Bobby Orr (1970).
After leading all Eastern Conference defensemen with 56 points during the 2008 playoffs; helping lead Red Wings to their tenth Stanley Cup championship against Pittsburgh Penguins – also winning Conn Smythe trophy.
Tt appeared that age may finally be catching up on arguably game's greatest Center fielder/defenseman at 33 years old but another stellar season followed lockout shortened 2012-13 campaign registering career highs 113 points.
While once again captained the club throughout entire postseason run culminating in another Championship victory against Boston Bruins en route to becoming first Russian national team member ever to hoist Lord Stanley’s cup on home soil following 5 previous defeats since Soviet Union’s last championship back in 1991.
Also Played For: detroit red wings, 2014–15 nhl season
6. Henrik Zetterberg
Center
Career
- National team: Sweden
- NHL Draft: 210th overall, 1999
- Detroit Red Wings
Henrik Zetterberg was born in Njurunda, Sweden on October 9th 1980. He played for Timrå IK of the Swedish Hockey League before being drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in 1999.
Zetterberg has spent his entire NHL career with the Red Wings, amassing over 1000 points and winning four Stanley Cups (2002–03, 2005–06, 2008–09, 2013).
In international play he has represented Sweden at numerous tournaments including the Winter Olympics in 2002 and 2006 as well as World Championships in 2001 and 2007.
Henrik is married to Emma Löfgren and they have two children together - Tilda (born 2004) and Leo (born 2009). Henrik Zetterberg is a well-known NHL player who has played for the Detroit Red Wings since 1997.
During his career, Henrik Zetterberg has won numerous awards and accolades, including two Olympic gold medals and nine world championships.
In 2018, Henrik announced his retirement from professional hockey after 19 seasons with the Detroit Red Wings. Outside of ice hockey, Henrik is also an avid supporter of various charities and causes - he was recently appointed as a UNICEF ambassador. Thank you, Henrik.
7. Ryan McDonagh
Defenseman
Career
- 2004–05: Cretin-Derham Hall High School
- 2005–06: Cretin-Derham Hall High School
- 2006–07: Cretin-Derham Hall High School
- 2007–08: University of Wisconsin
- 2008–09: University of Wisconsin
- 2009–10: University of Wisconsin
- 2010–11: Hartford Wolf Pack/CT Whale
- 2010–11: New York Rangers
- 2011–12: New York Rangers
Ryan McDonagh was born in Saint Paul, Minnesota in 1989. He played for the Kingston Frontenacs of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) from 2004 to 2007 before being drafted by the New York Rangers in 2008.
He made his NHL debut with the Rangers in 2009 and has since played for them, as well as several other teams, including stints with Hartford and Edmonton Oilers along the way.
In 2011 he signed a six-year contract extension with the Rangers that would keep him at Madison Square Garden through 2019.
Ryan is known for his strong defensive play and is often used by coaches to shut down opposing forwards on defense or create turnovers which can lead to goals scored by his teammates.
He represented Team United States at both World Championships (2010 & 2014), winning a gold medal in 2010 and silver medals in 2014, making him one of only two players ever to win back-to-back world championships on different teams (the other player is Sidney Crosby).
On October 3rd 2018 it was announced that McDonagh had been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS).
Despite this news he immediately resumed playing hockey for Team USA and captained their team at Pyeongchang Winter Olympics where they won Gold.
Also Played For: nhl 16, tampa bay lightning
8. Brad Richards
Center
Career
- Tampa Bay Lightning
- Dallas Stars
- New York Rangers
- Chicago Blackhawks
- Detroit Red Wings
- AK Bars Kazan
- National team: Canada
- NHL Draft: 64th overall, 1998
- Tampa Bay Lightning
Richards was born on May 2, 1980 in Murray Harbour, Prince Edward Island. He played his minor hockey with the Charlottetown Islanders of the Eastern Junior Hockey League (EJHL).
Richards made his professional debut in 2000-01 with the Worcester Sharks of the American Hockey League (AHL). In 2003-04 he signed as a free agent with Chicago and spent six seasons there before being traded to Tampa Bay midway through the 2010-11 season.
Richards has won two Stanley Cups with Chicago and one Cup each with Tampa Bay and New York Rangers .
He is a four time All Star, including three times as an alternate captain and once as captain of Team Canada at the World Championships . Brad Richards was drafted by the Tampa Bay Lightning in 1998.
Richards played for the Lightning, Dallas Stars, New York Rangers, Chicago Blackhawks and Detroit Red Wings over his playing career.
He won a Stanley Cup with the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2004 and was named to an All-Star team twice (2005, 2007). In 2016 he retired from professional hockey after 16 seasons in the NHL.
Also Played For: 2011–12 nhl season, memorial cup
9. Ryan Callahan
Right winger
Career
- 2000–01: Syracuse Jr. Crunch
- 2000–01: Syracuse Jr. Crunch
- 2001–02: Syracuse Jr. Crunch
- 2001–02: Buffalo Lightning
- 2002–03: Guelph Storm
- 2003–04: Guelph Storm
- 2004–05: Guelph Storm
- 2005–06: Guelph Storm
- 2006–07: Hartford Wolf Pack
- 2006–07: New York Rangers
Ryan Callahan is an American professional ice hockey player who currently plays for the Tampa Bay Lightning of the National Hockey League (NHL).
He was drafted by the Boston Bruins in the first round, 18th overall, of the 2002 NHL Entry Draft.
After playing with Boston and Florida during his early career, he signed a three-year contract worth $10 million with Tampa Bay on July 1st, 2012.
Injuries limited him to just 54 games over two seasons with Tampa Bay however he has since bounced back in 2016–17 scoring 30 goals and adding 47 assists for 77 points en route to being named runner up for the Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophy as league's most valuable player.
Ryan Callahan was born March 21 1985 in Rochester New York United States Ryan Callahan was drafted by the New York Rangers in the 2004 NHL Draft. He played for the Tampa Bay Lightning and then, in 2019, he signed with the Vegas Golden Knights.
He has won a Stanley Cup with both teams and is now retired from professional hockey. Ryan Callahan is known for his strong play on the right wing and his scoring abilities.
Also Played For: new york rangers
10. Joe Thornton
Center
Career
- NHL team: Free Agent
- Former teams: Boston Bruins
- HC Davos
- Florida Panthers
- National team: Canada
- NHL Draft: 1st overall, 1997
- Boston Bruins
Joe Thornton is a 43-year-old Canadian centre who has played for the San Jose Sharks since 2002.
He was drafted by the Boston Bruins in 1997, but never played for them as he was traded to San Jose on March 9, 2002.
Thornton has won two Stanley Cups with the Sharks (2011 and 2016), as well as three Art Ross Trophies (2002–2004, 2007–2008). He also represented Canada at both the World Cup of Hockey in 2008 and the Olympics in 2010.
In 2017, Thornton became an unrestricted free agent and signed with Dallas Stars; however, he retired from professional hockey after just one season there due to medical issues related to concussions Joe Thornton is a well-known NHL player who has played for the Boston Bruins and San Jose Sharks.
Joe Thornton was drafted 1st overall in the 1997 NHL Draft by the Bruins. Joe Thornton has had an illustrious playing career, winning many awards and accolades along the way including 4 Stanley Cups with Boston (2011, 2013, 2017, 2018).
With over 900 games played in the NHL, Joe Thornton is one of the most experienced players out there and will be a key part of Canada's World Cup campaign this year.
Also Played For: boston bruins, san jose sharks
11. Taylor Hall
Left wing
Career
- NHL team: Boston Bruins
- Former teams: Edmonton Oilers
- New Jersey Devils
- Arizona Coyotes
- Buffalo Sabres
- National team: Canada
- NHL Draft: 1st overall, 2010
- Edmonton Oilers
Taylor Hall is a left wing who plays for the Edmonton Oilers. He was drafted by the New Jersey Devils in the first round, 17th overall, of the 2010 NHL Entry Draft.
On July 1st, 2016 he signed with the Vegas Golden Knights to a six-year contract worth $42 million and became an unrestricted free agent on June 30th, 2020. In his rookie season (2010-11), Hall led all rookies in points (41) and assists (26).
The following year (2011-12), he finished second in scoring behind only Sidney Crosby with 116 points (50 goals and 76 assists).
In 2013-14, Hall again led all scorers with 113 points while helping lead New Jersey to their fourth Stanley Cup championship in franchise history.
On February 26th, 2018 Taylor scored an overtime goal against Arizona that won game 5 of their playoff series and propelled them into the Conference Finals where they eventually lost to Washington Capitals 4 games to 2.
12. Jonathan Toews
Center
Career
- NHL team: Chicago Blackhawks
- National team: Canada
- NHL Draft: 3rd overall, 2006
- Chicago Blackhawks
Jonathan Toews is a professional hockey player who has played for the Chicago Blackhawks of the NHL. Jonathan was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba and raised in Ottawa, Ontario.
He began his career as a forward with the Regina Pats of the Western Hockey League (WHL) before being drafted by the Chicago Blackhawks in 2006.
In 2011, he led all players with 82 points and received First Team All-Star honors from both the Professional Hockey Writers Association (PHWA) and The Sporting News.
In 2012, Jonathan helped lead Chicago to their first Stanley Cup championship since 1961, becoming just the third player in team history to score 30 goals and win MVP honours during playoff play along the way (the others are Doug Wilson & Bobby Hull).
Jonathan currently ranks fifth on Chicago's all-time scoring list with 395 points in 592 games played; he also holds franchise records for most assists (555), most game-winning goals (63), most powerplay goals scored (158),Most overtime goals scored(7)and Most penalty minutes accrued(1123).
On July 1st 2015, Jonathan signed an eight year contract extension worth $104 million dollars with Chicago which will keep him at Wrigley Field through 2027.
Also Played For: chicago blackhawks
13. Duncan Keith
Defenseman
Career
- 2002–03: Michigan State University
- 2002–03: Kelowna Rockets
- 2003–04: Norfolk Admirals
- 2004–05: Norfolk Admirals
- 2005–06: Chicago Blackhawks
- 2006–07: Chicago Blackhawks
- 2007–08: Chicago Blackhawks
- 2008–09: Chicago Blackhawks
Duncan Keith is a former NHL defenseman who played for the Chicago Blackhawks. Keith was drafted in the third round of the 2002 NHL Entry Draft by the Winnipeg Jets.
He made his debut with Winnipeg during the 2003-2004 season and spent six seasons with them before being traded to Chicago in 2008-09. With Chicago, he won two Stanley Cups (2010 and 2013) and three Presidents' Trophies (2009, 2010, 2011).
Injuries forced him to retire from professional hockey at age 36 after playing in just 57 games over two seasons with Los Angeles in 2016-17 and 2017-18 respectively.
Keith has since been appointed as an assistant coach for Team Canada at the 2018 IIHF World Championship where they reached their first ever Final tournament.
Duncan Keith is a veteran defenceman who has played for the Chicago Blackhawks, Edmonton Oilers and NHL Draft.
Duncan Keith was drafted in the 54th overall by Chicago Blackhawks in 2002. After playing with the Blackhawks for four seasons, he moved on to play with Edmonton Oilers where he remained until his retirement in 2022.
He has amassed over 550 games played as a professional hockey player and holds several records including most points (246) and assists (203) from a defenseman in an NHL career.
In 2018, Duncan Keith was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame after being selected unanimously by the selection committee.
His determination to win games at any cost has made him one of the most respected players in all of hockey history, both on and off the ice.
Also Played For: nhl 17
14. Brandon Saad
Left wing
Career
- NHL team: St. Louis Blues
- Former teams: Chicago Blackhawks
- Columbus Blue Jackets
- Colorado Avalanche
- NHL Draft: 43rd overall, 2011
- Chicago Blackhawks
Brandon Saad was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on October 27th, 1992. He is 6'1" and 192 pounds and plays left wing for the Chicago Blackhawks. Brandon Saad has had a successful NHL career thus far, scoring 53 goals and 150 points in 269 games played.
Brandon Saad is an important part of the Blackhawks team both on offense and defense with his speed, skill and creativity at playmaker position. Brandon Saad was drafted by the Chicago Blackhawks in the 43rd overall pick of the 2011 NHL Draft.
Brandon Saad has spent his entire playing career with the Blackhawks, amassing over 200 points in 224 games played.
Brandon Saad is a dynamic forward who can score goals from any angle and play an effective two-way game. Brandon Saad was named to Team Canada for the World Championships this year but did not participate due to injury concerns.
With several years remaining on his contract, expect Brandon Saad to continue making contributions for Chicago until he retires or is traded away.
15. Claude Giroux
Center
Career
- NHL team: Ottawa Senators
- Former teams: Philadelphia Flyers
- Eisbären Berlin
- Florida Panthers
- National team: Canada
- NHL Draft: 22nd overall, 2006
- Philadelphia Flyers
Claude Giroux is a talented forward who has played for the Philadelphia Flyers since 2010. He was drafted by the Flyers in 2008 and has helped them reach the playoffs every year since then.
In 2020, Giroux will turn 34 years old and may be looking to call it a career soon after yet another successful playoff run with the Flyers. Claude Giroux is known for his speed, skill on the ice, and leadership qualities both on and off of it.
He is married to Kelly Ogden and they have two children together - daughter Elsie (born in 2018) and son Elias (born in 2019).
Outside of hockey, Claude Giroux loves spending time with family, going hiking, playing golf, sailing, or just relaxing at home watching TV shows or movies with his kids.
Claude Giroux is a top-tier player in the NHL and one of the best forwards in league history. He has been with four different teams since 2007 but has always managed to put up good numbers wherever he's played.
Giroux was drafted by the Philadelphia Flyers as 22nd overall in 2006 and has remained with them ever since, winning two Stanley Cups during his time there.
Claude Giroux is known for his speed, skill, and scoring ability; no matter where he plays he always puts on a show for fans.
He will be looking to add another championship trophy to his collection when he lines up against the Pittsburgh Penguins this season in the playoffs.
Also Played For: ottawa senators, philadelphia flyers
16. Eric Staal
Center
Career
- NHL team: Florida Panthers
- Former teams: Carolina Hurricanes
- New York Rangers
- Minnesota Wild
- Buffalo Sabres
- Montreal Canadiens
- National team: Canada
- NHL Draft: 2nd overall, 2003
- Carolina Hurricanes
Eric Staal is a 37-year-old centre who has played in over 600 NHL games. He was drafted by the Carolina Hurricanes in 2003 and has been with them his entire career.
Staal is known for his hard work on the ice, as well as his leadership qualities. In 2013 he won the Stanley Cup with Carolina, after they had made it to the finals twice before that.
Outside of hockey, Staal is involved in charitable work through The Eric Staal Foundation which helps needy children across Canada. Eric Staal currently lives in Thunder Bay, Ontario with his wife and two young daughters (born August 2014 and February 2017).
Eric Staal was drafted by the Carolina Hurricanes in 2003 as the second overall pick. Eric Staal has played for the team since then, amassing over 800 career points. He is a two-time NHL All-Star and led his team to their first Stanley Cup championship in 2006.
In 2010, he signed with the New York Rangers and helped them win another championship in 2014. Eric Staal retired from professional hockey after playing with Minnesota Wild during the 2017 season - his 17th year of pro hockey.
Also Played For: carolina hurricanes, florida panthers
17. Thomas Vanek
Left wing
Career
- 1999–00: Sioux Falls Stampede
- 2000–01: Sioux Falls Stampede
- 2001–02: Sioux Falls Stampede
- 2002–03: Minnesota Golden Gophers
- 2003–04: Minnesota Golden Gophers
- 2004–05: Rochester Americans
- 2005–06: Buffalo Sabres
Thomas Vanek is a left winger who has played for the Buffalo Sabres, New York Islanders, Montreal Canadiens, Minnesota Wild, Detroit Red Wings and Florida Panthers.
Thomas Vanek was born on January 19th 1984 in Baden bei Wien, Austria. Thomas Vanek stands at 6' 2" tall and weighs 218lbs (99kg). He began his career with Graz 99ers before moving to the NHL with the Buffalo Sabres in 2004-05.
In 7 seasons with Buffalo he recorded 427 goals and 375 assists for 850 points in 890 games - an impressive statistic.
After leaving the Sabres in 2013-14, Thomas Vanek joined the New York Islanders where he would remain until 2016-17 when he moved onto Montreal as part of a blockbuster trade involving P Carey Price and Max Pacioretty which saw Brendan Gallagher move to Long Island from Ottawa.
In 2017-18 season TomVanek returned to Minnesota where he finished up his illustrious professional career playing 54 games recording 10 goals and 13 assists for 23 points helping them make it.
All the way to The Stanley Cup Final but unfortunately they were defeated by Nashville Predators four games to one a heartbreaking loss indeed.
Also Played For: ncaa hockey, minnesota wild
18. Ryan Getzlaf
Center
Career
- National team: Canada
- NHL Draft: 19th overall, 2003
- Mighty Ducks of Anaheim
Getzlaf is a veteran of the NHL and has played for the Anaheim Ducks since he was drafted in 2005. He’s been an important part of the team, both on and off the ice, throughout his career.
Getzlaf started his career as a bottom-six forward but has developed into one of the best two-way forwards in hockey.
His offensive skills are complemented by strong defensive playmaking abilities which have made him one of the most consistent scorers in league history.
Getzlaf is married to actress Alyssa Milano and they have three children together: Tyus, Griffin, and Evelyn.
He’s also father to Ryan Jr., who plays for Western Hockey League (WHL) team Seattle Thunderbirds as well as Bretton Tousignant who plays NCAA Division I hockey with Boston University Bruins Ryan Getzlaf was drafted by the Anaheim Ducks in 2003.
He played for the Ducks until he retired in 2022. Getzlaf is multiple winner of the Stanley Cup and has been an All-Star nine times. In 2013, he was awarded the Ted Lindsay Award as MVP of the playoffs; this award is given to the best player in hockey postseason play.
Getzlaf also has Olympic gold medals from 2010 and 2014 on his resume, making him one of only two players ever to win both an NHL championship and an Olympic gold medal (the other being Mario Lemieux).
Ryan's younger brother Tyler plays professional ice hockey with HC Davos in Switzerland.
Also Played For: anaheim ducks
19. Dan Hamhuis
Defenseman
Career
- National team: Canada
- NHL Draft: 12th overall, 2001
- Nashville Predators
Hamhuis is a physical player who uses his size and strength to dominate opposing players. He has played in the NHL for 10 seasons, most notably with the Vancouver Canucks.
Hamhuis also played for the Dallas Stars and Edmonton Oilers before joining the Canucks in 2011. Injuries have hampered Hamhuis' career recently, but he is still able to contribute on offence from time to time.
He will be 39 years old at the end of this season, which may mean that he is nearing the end of his playing days. Hamhuis was born in Canada but represents Australia at international level Dan Hamhuis played for the Nashville Predators from 2002 to 2020.
He was drafted by Vancouver Canucks in 2001, but he only played with them for two seasons before moving on to Dallas Stars. Dan is a left-handed defenceman and has represented Canada at both junior and international level.
In 2010, he won the Stanley Cup with Dallas Stars after defeating Philadelphia Flyers in six games series finale.
After playing his final season with Vancouver Canucks in 2018–19, Hamhuis signed a one-year contract with Nashville Predators ahead of the 2019–20 NHL season.
Also Played For: 2010–11 nhl season, vancouver canucks
20. James Neal
Left wing
Career
- NHL team: Free Agent
- Former teams: Dallas Stars
- Pittsburgh Penguins
- Nashville Predators
- Edmonton Oilers
- St. Louis Blues
- National team: Canada
- NHL Draft: 33rd overall, 2005
- Dallas Stars
James Neal is a former NHL winger who has spent most of his career playing for the Nashville Predators. He was drafted by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the first round of the 2006 NHL Draft and made his debut with them in 2007.
Injuries have been a common theme in Neal's career, but he has twice won Gold Medals with Canada at World Championships (2010, 2014).
After leaving Nashville as an unrestricted free agent at the end of 2018-19 season, James signed with Springfield Thunderbirds of AHL where he will join forces once again with head coach Peter Laviolette.
James Neal is a forward for the Dallas Stars of the NHL. He has played for Pittsburgh Penguins and Nashville Predators before joining the Stars in 2007.
James Neal was drafted by the Pittsburgh Penguins with 33rd overall pick in 2005 NHL Entry Draft, but he never lived up to his full potential there and was traded to Nashville Predators in 2011.
In 2013, James Neal led all playoff scorers with 17 goals as Nashville reached their first Stanley Cup Finals appearance since 2006. However, they were defeated by Boston Bruins in 4 games series.
After failing to reach another finals appearance with Nashville, James Neal signed a three-year deal worth $18 million with Vegas Golden Knights ahead of 2018-19 season where he quickly became one of their key players and helped them win the inaugural Pacific Division title that year as well as reaching playoffs twice more afterwards (2018 & 2020).
At 34 years old, James Neal is still playing at an elite level and could be set for another championship run if he joins Calgary Flames or Edmonton Oilers next season respectively.
Also Played For: vegas golden knights, nashville predators
21. Ilya Kovalchuk
Left wing
Career
- National team: Russia
- NHL Draft: 1st overall, 2001
- Atlanta Thrashers
Ilya Kovalchuk was born on April 15, 1983 in Kalinin, Russia. He is 6'3" and weighs 227 pounds.
Ilya played for the Atlanta Thrashers from 2007 to 2018 before signing with the New Jersey Devils in July of this year.
Ilya's shot is right-handed and he has 154 goals and 277 assists in 906 career NHL games; putting him second all time among Russian players behind only Sergei Fedorov (389 goals).
Ilya was a first team All Star twice (2008, 2010) as well as a member of both the Stanley Cup Champion Philadelphia Flyers (2005), and Olympic Gold Medalist Canada squad at the Vancouver 2010 Olympics Ilya Kovalchuk is a Russian professional ice hockey player who played 17 seasons in the National Hockey League (NHL).
In 2001, he was drafted first overall by the Atlanta Thrashers. He played for teams such as SKA Saint Petersburg, Avangard Omsk and Los Angeles Kings before moving to Montreal Canadiens in 2009.
After three seasons with Montreal, Kovalchuk left North America to play for the Washington Capitals until his retirement in 2016-17 season at age 39 due to injury.
Ilya Kovalchuk has won two Stanley Cup titles with both Washington Capitals and New Jersey Devils respectively in 2008 and 2018; thus making him one of only five players to win multiple championships with different NHL clubs (the others being Wayne Gretzky, Mario Lemieux, Mike Bossy and Sidney Crosby).
He also holds records for most goals scored in an NHL career (691), most points scored in an NHL career (1,816) and most assists in an NHL career (741).
Also Played For: new jersey devils
22. Nail Yakupov
SKA Saint Petersburg
Career
- KHL team: Avangard Omsk
- Former teams: Neftekhimik Nizhnekamsk
- Edmonton Oilers
- St. Louis Blues
- Colorado Avalanche
- SKA Saint Petersburg
- Amur Khabarovsk
- NHL Draft: 1st overall, 2012
- Edmonton Oilers
Yakupov was drafted in the first round, 16th overall by the Oilers in 2012. Yakupov had a breakout year with Edmonton scoring 31 goals and 68 points in 82 games played.
Injuries have been an issue for Yakupov who has only played 88 games over his 4 NHL seasons due to various injuries including concussions and a hernia surgery that forced him out of 2018-19 season opener.
He signed with SKA St Petersburg of the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) in 2019 after being released from his contract with the Oilers following their playoff exit last year.
Yakupov is known for his speed and shooting ability which he used to score 46 goals as a rookie in the KHL before making a return to Edmonton where he scored 28 more goals between 2016-2018 seasons helping lead them to consecutive Stanley Cup appearances (2016, 2017).
He also represented Russia at both World Junior Championships (2012, 2014) and IIHF World Championship (2015, 2017).
His parents were born in Kyrgyzstan so he can speak Russian fluently while also having some knowledge of Kazakh or Tajik since they are spoken there too; however English is now his main language speaking it well enough that he held talks at this summer’s NAFTA negotiations on behalf of Canada without any interpreter present.
Also Played For: 2012 nhl entry draft
23. Andrei Markov
Defenseman
Career
- National team: Russia
- NHL Draft: 162nd overall, 1998
- Montreal Canadiens
Andrei Markov is a veteran defenceman who has played in the NHL for 16 seasons.
He has won a Stanley Cup with the Montreal Canadiens in 2003. Andrei Markov is known for his strong skating and puck-moving ability.
He is a key member of the Montreal Canadiens defence and is often relied upon to quarterback the team's defensive play. Andrei Markov has also played for the Ottawa Senators, Nashville Predators, and the Kontinental Hockey League's CSKA Moscow.
Andrei Markov has represented Russia in international competition on several occasions and is a two-time Olympic gold medalist. Andrei Markov will turn 45 in December 2018 and is likely to retire at the end of the season. Andrei Markov currently resides in Montreal, Quebec.
Andrei Markov is a Russian defenseman who has played for numerous teams in the NHL, most notably the Montreal Canadiens. He is a two-time Stanley Cup champion and a nine-time All-Star.
He was named to the NHL Second All-Star Team in 2007. Andrei Markov has been a member of the Russian National Team since 1998.
He was inducted into the Russian Hockey Hall of Fame in 2013. Andrei Markov retired from the NHL in 2020. Andrei Markov is a two-time Olympian and a three-time World Champion. He was born in Tver, Russia, on December 7, 1975. Andrei Markov is married and has two children.
Also Played For: montreal canadiens
24. Sheldon Souray
Montreal Canadiens
Career
- National team: Canada
- NHL Draft: 71st overall, 1994
- New Jersey Devils
Sheldon Souray enjoyed a long and successful NHL career with the Edmonton Oilers. He was a physical defender who was known for his strong slapshot.
Souray was a two-time winner of the James Norris Memorial Trophy, awarded to the best defenceman in the NHL.
Souray was also a two-time winner of the Hart Memorial Trophy, awarded to the most valuable player in the NHL. Souray announced his retirement from professional hockey in September of 2018.
Souray is now a hockey commentator for the Edmonton Oilers. He has three children and resides in Edmonton, Alberta.
Sheldon Souray is a member of the Hockey Hall of Fame. Sheldon Souray was drafted by the New Jersey Devils in the 71st overall in the 1994 NHL Draft.
Souray played for the Montreal Canadiens, Edmonton Oilers, Hershey Bears, Dallas Stars, Anaheim Ducks, and Canada in his playing career. Souray retired from the NHL in 2013.
Sheldon Souray was a two-time Stanley Cup Champion with the Edmonton Oilers in 2006 and 2007. Sheldon Souray was also a two-time Olympic Gold Medalist with Canada in 2010 and 2014. Sheldon Souray is currently an assistant coach with the Anaheim Ducks.
Sheldon Souray was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2018. Sheldon Souray is married to Pascale and they have two children.
Sheldon Souray is a memorable player in the NHL and will be remembered for his championships, Olympic Gold Medals, and memorable plays.
Also Played For: kelowna rockets
25. Dustin Brown
Right winger
Career
- National team: United States
- NHL Draft: 13th overall, 2003
- Los Angeles Kings
Dustin Brown was born and raised in Ithaca, New York. Brown played his college hockey at the University of Maine. Brown made his professional hockey debut with the Los Angeles Kings in 2003.
Brown has played for the Kings, Boston Bruins, and San Jose Sharks. Brown was traded to the Sharks in February of 2016. Brown is a two-time Stanley Cup champion, with the Kings in 2012 and the Sharks in 2016.
Brown has also been awarded the James Norris Memorial Trophy as the NHL's best defenseman in 2012 and 2016. Brown is a member of the United States men's national ice hockey team. Brown is married and has two children.
Dustin Brown played for the Los Angeles Kings for 13 seasons, before moving to the Zurich Lions in Switzerland in 2020. Brown was drafted by the Kings in the 2003 NHL Draft, and played for them until he retired in 2022.
Brown is a two-time Stanley Cup champion, having won with the Kings in 2012 and again in 2014. Brown is a prolific goal scorer, with 639 points in 805 games played. Brown is one of the most respected players in the NHL, and is a role model for younger players.
Brown is married to Canadian actress Sarah Chalke, and they have two children. Brown is a popular guest speaker at hockey clinics, and is often seen working with young players in the community.
Brown is a highly respected member of the NHL community, and is often consulted by league officials. Brown is a member of the United States Hockey Hall of Fame.
Also Played For: los angeles kings
26. Brian Campbell
Defenseman
Career
- National team: Canada
- NHL Draft: 156th overall, 1997
- Buffalo Sabres
Brian Campbell is a defenceman who has played for the Buffalo Sabres, Jokerit, and San Jose Sharks. Campbell was drafted by the Sabres in the first round, 14th overall, in the 1997 NHL Draft.
He has played in over 1000 games in the NHL, scoring 27 goals and adding 131 assists. Campbell was a member of the Canada men's national ice hockey team that won a gold medal at the 2002 Winter Olympics.
Campbell was awarded the James Norris Memorial Trophy as the NHL's best defenceman in 2006-07. In 2013, Campbell was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame.
Campbell currently resides in Toronto, Ontario. Campbell played in the NHL for over a decade, representing Canada at various tournaments.
He was drafted in the 1997 NHL Draft by the Buffalo Sabres, and played for them for six seasons before moving to the Chicago Blackhawks in 2001.
Campbell won a Stanley Cup with the Blackhawks in 2010, and also played for the Florida Panthers and Calgary Flames in his career. He retired from professional hockey in 2017, and now works as an analyst for the Calgary Flames.
27. Jay Bouwmeester
Defenseman
Career
- National team: Canada
- NHL Draft: 3rd overall, 2002
- Florida Panthers
Bouwmeester is a veteran defenseman who has played for the Blues and Calgary Flames. He is a two-time NHL All-Star and was a member of the Canadian Olympic team in 2010.
Bouwmeester is known for his strong defensive play and is a key member of the Blues' blue line. He is a natural leader on the ice and is highly respected by his teammates.
Bouwmeester is a strong skater with good agility and speed. He is also a very good puckhandler, able to move the puck up the ice quickly and make plays with it. Bouwmeester is a physical defenseman, capable of using his size and strength to block shots and clear the ice.
Bouwmeester is a two-time Stanley Cup champion, winning with the Blues in 2013 and Calgary in 2004.
Bouwmeester is a free agent after playing his final season with the St. Louis Blues in 2018. Bouwmeester is married to Canadian actress and model Kelly Brook and has two children.
Bouwmeester is a native of Edmonton, Alberta, and is of Dutch and French descent. Bouwmeester is a highly respected member of the NHL community and is often cited as a model player by other players.
Also Played For: st louis blues trade
28. Michael Ryder
Boston Bruins
Career
- Montreal Canadiens
- Boston Bruins
- Dallas Stars
- New Jersey Devils
- NHL Draft: 216th overall, 1998
- Montreal Canadiens
Ryder is a veteran of the NHL who has played for the New Jersey Devils and Nashville Predators. Ryder was a key player for the Devils in their run to the Stanley Cup Finals in 2003.
Ryder has also had success with the Predators, appearing in the playoffs nine times and winning the Stanley Cup in 2006. Ryder has been a consistent scorer throughout his career, averaging over 20 goals per season.
Ryder has had several health issues in recent years, including a heart attack in 2013 and a concussion in 2015. Ryder is considered a leader on and off the ice and is a mentor to younger players in the NHL. Ryder is currently an assistant coach with the Devils.
Ryder is a Canadian citizen and has expressed interest in playing for his country at the Olympics. Ryder is married and has two children.
29. Daniel Girardi
New York Rangers
Career
- New York Rangers
- Tampa Bay Lightning
- NHL Draft: Undrafted
Daniel Girardi is a professional ice hockey defenseman who currently plays for the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Girardi was drafted by the New York Rangers in the second round of the 2002 NHL Entry Draft.
He has represented Canada at the Olympic Games (2004, 2006, 2010), World Championships (2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2013, 2017), and World Cup of Hockey (2009). Girardi has played in the Stanley Cup Finals twice, once with the Rangers and once with the Lightning.
In 2018, Girardi became a father for the first time. His son was born in April of that year. Girardi is a two-time Olympian and a three-time World Champion.
He is also a two-time Norris Trophy winner (2009, 2013) and a two-time Vezina Trophy winner (2009, 2013). Girardi is a two-time recipient of the William M.
Jennings Trophy (2009, 2013). In 2018, Girardi was elected to the Hockey Hall of Fame.
Final Words
The 2012–13 NHL season was an exciting one for hockey fans around the world. The 96th season of professional hockey, it featured a number of great players, each with their own individual talents and abilities.
Some of the most notable players of the season include Sidney Crosby, Alex Ovechkin, and Carey Price. These three players led their teams to championship victories, and are considered to be the best players in the NHL.
