Oliver Ekman-Larsson: A Comprehensive Examination of His NHL Career

Early Life and Career

Oliver Ekman-Larsson (born July 17, 1991) is a Swedish professional ice hockey defenseman who currently plays for the Vancouver Canucks of the National Hockey League (NHL). Born in Karlskrona, Sweden, Ekman-Larsson began his career with the Tingsryds AIF of the Swedish HockeyAllsvenskan in 2006.

In 2009, Ekman-Larsson was drafted 18th overall by the Phoenix Coyotes (now the Arizona Coyotes) in the NHL Entry Draft. He made his NHL debut during the 2009-2010 season and quickly established himself as one of the league's most promising young defensemen.

NHL Career Highlights

Ekman-Larsson has enjoyed a highly successful NHL career to date, accumulating several notable achievements and accolades. These include:

• Five-time NHL All-Star (2012, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018)
• NHL Second Team All-Star in 2016
• Youngest captain in Coyotes history (named in 2013 at age 21)
• Served as captain of Team Sweden at the 2014 and 2018 Winter Olympics
• Won a silver medal with Sweden at the 2014 Winter Olympics

Statistical Achievements

Ekman-Larsson has consistently ranked among the league's top defensemen in various statistical categories. Here are some of his key statistics:

• Games Played: 925 (as of the 2022-2023 NHL season)
• Goals: 142
• Assists: 444
• Points: 586
• Power Play Points: 242 (ranks 5th among active defensemen)
• Shots on Goal: 2,970 (ranks 7th among active defensemen)
• Average Time on Ice: 23:39 (ranks 12th among active defensemen)

Playing Style

Oliver Ekman-Larsson is known for his exceptional offensive skills. He possesses a powerful shot, pinpoint passing ability, and a dynamic skating stride that allows him to create scoring chances for himself and his teammates. Defensively, Ekman-Larsson is a solid puck-mover and a physical presence, using his size and strength to disrupt opposing forwards. His versatility and two-way game make him a valuable asset to any team.

Moving from Arizona to Vancouver

After spending 12 seasons with the Coyotes, Ekman-Larsson requested a trade from Arizona. On July 28, 2021, he was traded to the Vancouver Canucks in exchange for Conor Garland and Jay Beagle. In Vancouver, he joined forces with another star defenseman, Quinn Hughes, forming one of the most exciting young defensive duos in the NHL.

Personal Life

Oliver Ekman-Larsson is married to Johanna Larsson, a former Swedish ice hockey player. Together, they have two children. Ekman-Larsson is known for his charitable work and has been involved in several community initiatives, including his own foundation, the Oliver Ekman-Larsson Foundation.

Conclusion

Oliver Ekman-Larsson is one of the most accomplished and respected defensemen in the NHL today. His offensive prowess, defensive reliability, and leadership qualities have made him a key player for every team he has played on. As he continues his NHL career, Ekman-Larsson is poised to add to his already impressive legacy and establish himself as one of the greatest Swedish defensemen of all time.

Tables

1. Oliver Ekman-Larsson's NHL All-Star Appearances

2. Oliver Ekman-Larsson's NHL Statistical Awards

3. Oliver Ekman-Larsson's Statistical Highlights

Tips and Tricks

For Young Defensemen:

• Focus on developing your skating skills. Ekman-Larsson's dynamic skating stride is a key part of his success.
• Practice your shot regularly. Ekman-Larsson is known for his powerful shot, which he has honed through hours of practice.
• Study the game and learn from the best. Ekman-Larsson has modeled his game after some of the greatest defensemen in NHL history.

For Hockey Fans:

• Attend an NHL game to witness Ekman-Larsson's skills firsthand.
• Follow Ekman-Larsson on social media to stay up-to-date on his latest news and highlights.
• Vote for Ekman-Larsson as an NHL All-Star to show your appreciation for his contributions to the sport.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Exceptional offensive skills
• Solid puck-mover and physical presence
• Versatile and two-way game
• Leadership qualities

Cons:

• Can be prone to occasional defensive lapses
• Has had some injury issues in recent years
• May not be the most physical defenseman in the NHL

FAQs

1. How old is Oliver Ekman-Larsson?

• 31 years old

2. What is Oliver Ekman-Larsson's height and weight?

• 6'4" (193 cm) and 225 lbs (102 kg)

3. What team did Oliver Ekman-Larsson play on before the Coyotes?

• Tingsryds AIF

4. How many points did Oliver Ekman-Larsson have in his first NHL season?

• 21 points (5 goals, 16 assists)

5. What is Oliver Ekman-Larsson's career-high point total?

• 63 points in the 2015-2016 NHL season

6. How many international medals has Oliver Ekman-Larsson won?

• One silver medal (2014 Winter Olympics)

7. Is Oliver Ekman-Larsson the captain of the Vancouver Canucks?

• No, Bo Horvat is the current captain of the Canucks.

8. What is Oliver Ekman-Larsson's jersey number?

• 23