During his NHL career, Burns has a total of 261 goals on 4,051 shots at the opposing goalie. Having made his way onto the ice 1,497 times during his career, Brent Burns has a plus/minus of 11 during those matchups. Brent Burns has helped his team score 649 times with a helper, but he has harmed his team by spending 855 mins in the bad bin. With a points total of 910, he has also earned a shooting percentage of 6.4%.
Burns has played 82 times and has a total of 29 points so far this year. He has accumulated 6 goals and he also has earned a +/- of 7. He has a shooting % of 3.4% (174 shots at the net) and has done 28 minutes in the sin bin. Burns is averaging 0.4 points per game with 23 helpers.
Brent Burns was born on March 9, 1985, in Barrie, Ontario, Canada. From a young age, Burns showed a keen interest in hockey, playing for local teams and honing his skills. His passion and talent did not go unnoticed, and he was drafted 20th overall by the Minnesota Wild in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft.
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Childhood and Early Passion for Hockey
Growing up in Barrie, Burns was immersed in Canada’s rich hockey culture. Surrounded by the sport, he spent countless hours on outdoor rinks and local leagues, showcasing his raw talent and a natural flair for the game. His enthusiasm for hockey was evident from the start, capturing the attention of coaches and scouts alike.
Burns’ early experiences in local leagues were crucial in developing his foundational skills. As a young player, he learned the importance of teamwork and discipline, values that would shape his future career. His early coaches recall a player with an insatiable appetite for improvement, always pushing himself to excel on the ice.
Path to the NHL Draft
As Burns progressed through the ranks of youth hockey, his potential became increasingly apparent. His performances caught the eye of NHL scouts, leading to his selection in the first round of the 2003 NHL Entry Draft. Being drafted 20th overall by the Minnesota Wild was a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport.
The draft marked the beginning of Burns’ professional journey, transitioning from a promising young talent to a player on the brink of an NHL career. This milestone was a significant achievement, setting the stage for his future success in the league. For Burns, it was a dream come true, validating years of effort and sacrifice.
Transition from Forward to Defenseman
Upon joining the Minnesota Wild, Burns initially played as a forward. However, his coach soon recognized his unique skill set and saw potential in him as a defenseman. This strategic switch was pivotal in shaping Burns’ career trajectory, allowing him to leverage his offensive skills while strengthening his defensive game.
The transition to defenseman required Burns to adapt his playing style, focusing on positioning and defensive responsibilities. Embracing this change, Burns quickly mastered the nuances of the role, becoming a dual-threat player capable of influencing the game from both ends of the ice. This versatility would become a hallmark of his NHL career.
Minnesota Wild: The Beginning
Burns began his NHL career with the Minnesota Wild in the 2003-2004 season. Initially, he played as a forward, but his coach soon recognized his potential as a defenseman. This switch proved to be a turning point in his career. Over the next few seasons, Burns developed into one of the league’s most versatile players, capable of playing both defense and forward positions.
Establishing Himself as a Key Player
Burns’ time with the Wild saw him grow as a player, and by the 2007-2008 season, he had established himself as a key part of the team’s defense, recording 43 points in 82 games. Burns continued to improve his game, becoming known for his offensive capabilities from the blue line and his robust physical play.
His ability to play both forward and defense provided the Wild with flexibility and depth, making him an invaluable asset to the team. Burns’ contributions were instrumental in the Wild’s competitive performances during his tenure, as he consistently delivered both offensively and defensively.
Memorable Moments and Highlights
During his stint with the Wild, Burns had several standout performances that endeared him to fans and teammates alike. One such memorable moment was his first NHL goal, a testament to his offensive instincts and ability to seize opportunities. This milestone was just the beginning of many highlights in his career.
Another significant highlight was his role in the Wild’s playoff runs, where Burns’ versatility and leadership were on full display. His ability to elevate his play in high-pressure situations made him a reliable player in critical games, earning him respect and admiration from the hockey community.
Challenges and Growth
While Burns’ career with the Wild was marked by numerous achievements, it also came with its share of challenges. Injuries and the demands of adapting to different roles tested his resilience and determination. However, these challenges contributed to his growth as a player, shaping his character and work ethic.
Through perseverance and dedication, Burns overcame these obstacles, emerging as a stronger and more complete player. His experiences with the Wild laid the foundation for his future success, teaching him the importance of adaptability and the value of continuous improvement.
San Jose Sharks: A New Chapter
In June 2011, Brent Burns was traded to the San Jose Sharks, a move that would define the next significant phase of his career. The Sharks saw Burns as a player who could contribute significantly to their defensive line while also adding offensive firepower.
Transition to the Sharks
The trade to the San Jose Sharks marked a new chapter in Burns’ career, offering him fresh opportunities to showcase his talents. Joining a team with championship aspirations, Burns was eager to make an immediate impact. His transition to the Sharks was seamless, as he quickly adapted to the team’s playing style and dynamics.
Burns’ arrival in San Jose was met with excitement from fans and teammates, who recognized his potential to elevate the team’s performance. His versatility and skill set made him a perfect fit for the Sharks, and he wasted no time in proving his worth on the ice.
Defensive Prowess and Offensive Power
Burns quickly became a fan favorite in San Jose, known for his imposing presence on the ice and his ability to influence the game from the back end. His offensive talent flourished with the Sharks, and he became one of the top-scoring defensemen in the NHL.
During the 2015-2016 season, Burns scored 27 goals and 48 assists, totaling 75 points in 82 games. This outstanding performance helped lead the Sharks to the Stanley Cup Finals for the first time in franchise history, although they ultimately fell to the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Recognition and Awards
Burns’ exceptional play has not gone unnoticed. In the 2016-2017 season, he was awarded the James Norris Memorial Trophy, given to the NHL’s top defenseman. That season, he posted career-high numbers, with 29 goals and 47 assists, cementing his status as one of the elite defensemen in the league.
His accomplishments with the Sharks underscored his impact on the team and the league as a whole. Burns’ ability to excel in both offensive and defensive roles made him a standout player, earning him accolades and recognition from peers and fans alike.
Career Stats and Impact
Brent Burns’ career stats are a testament to his skill and longevity in the NHL. Over his career, he has consistently been among the top-scoring defensemen, thanks to his unique ability to play an offensive style while maintaining defensive responsibilities.
Career Milestones
As of the 2023 season, Burns has played over 1,300 NHL games, scoring more than 230 goals and providing upwards of 500 assists. His point-per-game pace and durability have set him apart as a formidable force in the NHL.
In addition to his regular season success, Burns has been a significant contributor in the playoffs, bringing experience and leadership to his teams during crucial postseason runs.
Impact on the Teams
Burns’ influence extends beyond his impressive statistics. His presence on the ice has been a game-changer for every team he’s played for, elevating their performance and competitiveness. His ability to impact games from the blue line has made him a valuable asset and a key figure in team strategies.
His leadership and experience have also played a crucial role in mentoring younger players, helping to develop the next generation of talent. Burns’ impact on his teams goes beyond numbers, as he contributes to their success through his skill, leadership, and dedication.
Longevity and Consistency
One of the hallmarks of Burns’ career is his remarkable longevity and consistency. Despite the physical demands of the NHL, he has maintained a high level of performance throughout his career. His ability to stay healthy and productive over the years is a testament to his commitment and professionalism.
Burns’ consistency has made him a reliable and dependable player, earning the trust and respect of coaches, teammates, and fans. His enduring presence in the league serves as an inspiration to aspiring hockey players and a reminder of the dedication required to succeed at the highest level.
Teams and Transitions
Apart from his significant stints with the Minnesota Wild and San Jose Sharks, Brent Burns joined the Carolina Hurricanes in the later stages of his career. This move was aimed at bolstering the Hurricanes’ defense and adding veteran leadership to a young and promising roster.
Adaptability and Leadership
Throughout his career, Burns has been known for his adaptability and willingness to embrace different roles for the benefit of his team. Whether playing as a forward or defenseman, his leadership qualities have made him a respected figure in the locker room and on the ice.
His transition to the Hurricanes is another example of his ability to adapt to new environments and continue to perform at a high level, contributing both offensively and defensively.
The Carolina Hurricanes Experience
Joining the Carolina Hurricanes represented a new challenge and opportunity for Burns. As a veteran player, he was tasked with providing leadership and guidance to a team filled with young talent. His experience and on-ice presence were invaluable assets as the Hurricanes sought to build a competitive and cohesive unit.
Burns’ impact on the Hurricanes was immediate, as he seamlessly integrated into the team’s systems and contributed to their success. His ability to mentor younger players and lead by example was instrumental in fostering a positive team culture and encouraging growth.
Legacy and Influence
Burns’ career transitions and experiences with different teams have contributed to his legacy as a versatile and influential player. His adaptability and leadership have left a lasting impact on the franchises he has played for, helping to shape their identities and successes.
As he continues to play for the Hurricanes, Burns’ influence extends beyond the ice, as he inspires the next generation of players to embrace versatility and dedication. His legacy in the NHL is characterized by his contributions to the game and the positive influence he has had on his teammates and fans.
Off the Ice: Brent Burns the Person
Beyond his on-ice accomplishments, Brent Burns is known for his vibrant personality and philanthropic efforts. His distinctive appearance, complete with a long beard and tattoos, has made him a recognizable figure in the hockey community.
Philanthropy and Personal Interests
Burns is actively involved in charitable work, often participating in initiatives aimed at supporting children’s hospitals and youth hockey programs. His commitment to giving back to the community highlights his character and dedication to making a positive impact off the ice.
In his personal time, Burns enjoys wildlife photography and spending time with his family, showcasing a softer side to the rugged persona seen on the ice.
Community Engagement and Initiatives
Burns’ philanthropic efforts extend beyond financial contributions, as he actively engages with communities and supports various causes. His involvement in youth hockey programs demonstrates his commitment to nurturing the next generation of players, providing them with opportunities to develop their skills and love for the game.
Additionally, Burns’ work with children’s hospitals reflects his compassion and desire to make a difference in the lives of those facing challenges. Through his initiatives, he inspires others to contribute to meaningful causes and create a positive impact in the world.
Personal Life and Interests
Outside of hockey, Burns has a range of personal interests that showcase his multifaceted personality. His passion for wildlife photography allows him to express his creativity and appreciation for nature, capturing stunning images that reflect his unique perspective.
Spending time with his family is also a priority for Burns, providing him with balance and fulfillment off the ice. His personal interests and commitments highlight the depth of his character and the values that guide him both on and off the rink.
Conclusion
Brent Burns’ NHL career is a story of versatility, skill, and continuous evolution. From his early days with the Minnesota Wild to his impactful years with the San Jose Sharks and his current role with the Carolina Hurricanes, Burns has consistently demonstrated why he is considered one of the premier defensemen in the league.
His career stats and achievements speak volumes about his contributions to the game, and his legacy as a dynamic and influential player is firmly established. As Brent Burns continues to skate on the ice, fans can look forward to more memorable moments from this exceptional hockey player.