Luke Gazdic

Luke Gazdic was born on July 25, 1989, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. His professional ice hockey career began after being drafted 172nd overall in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft by the Dallas Stars. Prior to his NHL debut, Gazdic played in the Ontario Junior Hockey League (OPJHL) for the North York Rangers and Wexford Raiders, and in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) for the Erie Otters from 2006 to 2009. He also gained experience in the ECHL with the Idaho Steelheads and in the AHL with the Texas Stars.

Gazdic made his NHL debut on October 1, 2013, with the Edmonton Oilers, scoring his first NHL goal in that game. He played as an enforcer for the Oilers from the 2013-14 to 2015-16 seasons, appearing in 136 games and recording 5 goals and 3 assists. During his tenure with the Oilers, he also played for their AHL affiliates, the Oklahoma City Barons and Bakersfield Condors. In July 2016, Gazdic signed with the New Jersey Devils, playing 11 NHL games during the 2016-17 season while also competing in the AHL for the Albany Devils. He later joined the Calgary Flames organization in July 2017, playing for their AHL affiliate, the Stockton Heat. He concluded his playing career with the San Diego Gulls in the AHL, retiring in June 2021.

Following his retirement from professional hockey, Gazdic transitioned into media and corporate roles. Since 2023, he has served as an analyst for NHL on Sportsnet, providing commentary and insights into the sport. He also holds the position of Manager, Corporate Partnerships at the NHL Alumni Association, leveraging his experience in professional hockey to forge strategic alliances. His career progression demonstrates a successful move from a distinguished playing career to influential roles in hockey media and business development.