Victor Hedman

Victor Hedman is an accomplished ice hockey defenseman and captain, celebrated for his extensive career and significant contributions to the sport. After being drafted second overall by the Tampa Bay Lightning in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft, Victor Hedman made his NHL debut in October 2009, recording an assist in his first game and scoring his first NHL goal in December of the same year. His promising talent had previously earned him an SHL Rookie of the Year nomination in the 2008–09 season with Modo Hockey. Hedman signed a five-year, $20 million contract extension with Tampa Bay in 2011, making his NHL Playoffs debut that same year.

In 2017, he became the first defenseman in Lightning history to record 50 assists and later 70 points in a single season, earning him an NHL All-Star Game selection. He further cemented his reputation as one of the league’s elite defensemen by winning the prestigious James Norris Memorial Trophy in 2018, the same year he recorded his 300th career NHL assist. By 2019, Hedman led the franchise in games played by a defenseman and achieved his 400th career NHL point and 100th career NHL goal. His leadership and skill were instrumental in the Tampa Bay Lightning’s back-to-back Stanley Cup victories in 2020 and 2021, with Hedman also being awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy as the most valuable player during the 2020 playoffs.

Louis for the franchise leader in assists and Steven Stamkos for most games played in Lightning history, further solidifying his legacy. Hedman is projected to record his 600th career assist in 2025, continuing to be a central figure in professional ice hockey.