In addition to his 191 goals, Mikael Granlund has been helpful to his teammates 446 times with an assist. He has visited the sin bin for a total of 291 minutes and his +/- for his career is -36. Shooting 10.7%, Granlund has attempted to put the puck past the net 1,781 different times throughout his career. Over the course of his career, Granlund has accounted for 637 points during his 940 matchups played.
He holds an average of 0.7 pts/G with 15 assists. Mikael Granlund has a shooting rate of 15.4% (78 shots) and has logged 14 mins in the penalty box. Mikael Granlund is sitting with 12 goals and he also has earned a plus/minus of -10. He has skated onto the ice 38 times and he also has tallied 27 pts on the season.
Mikael Granlund is a name that resonates with hockey fans around the world. Known for his exceptional playmaking abilities and versatility on the ice, Granlund has carved out a significant place for himself in the National Hockey League (NHL). In this article, we’ll delve into Mikael Granlund’s NHL career, examining his journey, stats, and impact on the game.
Born on February 26, 1992, in Oulu, Finland, Mikael Granlund’s love for hockey started at a young age. He quickly rose through the ranks in Finland, demonstrating exceptional skill and hockey IQ. His early career in Finland was marked by impressive performances, and it wasn’t long before NHL scouts began to take notice.
Journey to the NHL
Granlund’s journey to the NHL began when he was drafted ninth overall by the Minnesota Wild in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. This was a significant milestone in his career and a testament to his potential as a future NHL star. Before making his NHL debut, Granlund continued to hone his skills in the Finnish league, where he became known for his creativity and vision on the ice.
NHL Debut and Career with the Minnesota Wild
Granlund made his NHL debut with the Minnesota Wild during the 2012-2013 season. Despite a lockout-shortened season, he showcased his talent and adaptability, quickly becoming a fan favorite. Over the next few seasons, Granlund established himself as a key player for the Wild, known for his ability to both score and assist.
Notable Achievements with the Wild
During his time with the Minnesota Wild, Mikael Granlund achieved several notable milestones:
- First NHL Goal: Granlund scored his first NHL goal against the Colorado Avalanche, marking the beginning of his scoring journey in the league.
- Career-High Season: In the 2016-2017 season, Granlund recorded a career-high 69 points, including 26 goals and 43 assists, solidifying his reputation as a top-tier forward.
- Overtime Heroics: Granlund’s knack for scoring in crucial moments was highlighted by his numerous overtime goals, making him a clutch player for the Wild.
Transition to the Nashville Predators
In 2019, Granlund’s career took a new direction when he was traded to the Nashville Predators. This transition marked a new chapter in his NHL journey. Although the trade brought changes, Granlund continued to display his playmaking prowess and versatility on the ice.
Impact with the Predators
Granlund’s impact with the Nashville Predators has been significant. He quickly adapted to his new team, contributing both offensively and defensively. His experience and leadership qualities have made him an invaluable asset to the Predators’ lineup.
- Consistent Performance: Despite the transition, Granlund maintained his consistent performance, regularly contributing points and enhancing the team’s offensive capabilities.
- Veteran Leadership: As a seasoned NHL player, Granlund’s leadership on and off the ice has been instrumental in guiding younger players and bolstering team morale.
Mikael Granlund’s NHL Stats
Granlund’s NHL stats reflect his impressive career and contributions to the game. Over the years, he has accumulated an array of statistics that highlight his abilities as a forward.
Career Stats Overview
- Games Played: Granlund has played in over 600 NHL games, showcasing his durability and consistency as a player.
- Goals and Assists: He has scored over 100 goals and provided more than 200 assists, emphasizing his dual threat as a scorer and playmaker.
- Power Play Points: Granlund’s ability to excel in special teams is evident through his numerous power play points, making him a valuable asset in critical situations.
International Success
In addition to his NHL achievements, Mikael Granlund has also experienced success on the international stage. Representing Finland, he has participated in several World Championships and Olympics, earning accolades for his performances.
Memorable International Moments
- World Junior Championships: Granlund’s performance in the World Junior Championships was a standout, where he helped Finland secure a bronze medal.
- Olympic Achievements: Competing in the Winter Olympics, Granlund showcased his skills on a global platform, contributing to Finland’s success and earning respect from hockey fans worldwide.
Granlund’s Playing Style and Strengths
Mikael Granlund’s playing style is characterized by his exceptional vision, hockey IQ, and versatility. As a forward, he can seamlessly transition between center and wing positions, adapting to the needs of his team. His strengths include:
- Vision and Creativity: Granlund’s ability to read the game and make precise passes sets him apart as a playmaker.
- Defensive Responsibility: While known for his offensive abilities, Granlund is also a responsible defensive player, often contributing to penalty kills and defensive plays.
- Clutch Performance: Granlund’s knack for delivering in high-pressure situations, such as overtime and playoffs, makes him a reliable asset for any team.
Conclusion
Mikael Granlund’s journey in the NHL is a testament to his skill, dedication, and adaptability. From his early days in Finland to his current role with the Nashville Predators, Granlund has consistently proven himself as a top-tier hockey player. His impressive stats, international success, and impact on the ice have solidified his place in the NHL. As he continues to evolve his game, fans can look forward to many more exciting moments from this talented hockey player.
