Mika Zibanejad is set to mark a significant milestone in his career as he reaches his 1,000th NHL game with the New York Rangers. The match will be against the Ottawa Senators, a team where he began his career. His family and friends, more than 20 in total, have traveled from Sweden to support him during this important event.
Zibanejad’s Journey to 1,000 Games
Zibanejad’s journey in the NHL began in 2011 when he was drafted by the Senators. He played for Ottawa until 2016, accumulating 151 points in 281 games. His best season with the Senators came in 2015-16, where he achieved 51 points in 81 games.
- First five seasons with Senators (2011-2016)
- 151 points (64 goals, 87 assists)
- Top season: 2015-16 with 51 points (21 goals, 30 assists)
Zibanejad’s career took a significant turn when he was traded to the Rangers in July 2016. This move included a second-round pick for Derick Brassard. Since joining the Rangers, Zibanejad has made a lasting impact, ranking in the top 10 for various offensive statistics.
Key Achievements with the Rangers
In his time with the Rangers, Zibanejad has achieved remarkable milestones:
- 280 goals, tying Adam Graves for fourth on the team’s all-time scoring list
- 376 assists, ranking ninth in Rangers history
- 656 points, making him seventh all-time in team history
- 122 power-play goals, the highest in franchise history
- Eight overtime goals, first in team history
Reflection on His Career
The significance of reaching 1,000 games is profound for Zibanejad. He expressed humility, stating, “I couldn’t even dream of this.” He admitted he never anticipated such a successful journey in the NHL. For him, this milestone is not just about personal achievement; it symbolizes the realization of a dream he had since childhood.
As he prepares to take the ice against the Senators, Zibanejad’s story is a testament to perseverance and dedication in the world of hockey.
