Kevin Bieksa
Canadian defenceman known for physical play and two-way ability.
Kevin Francesco Bieksa (born June 16, 1981) is a Canadian former professional ice hockey defenceman who played for the Vancouver Canucks and the Anaheim Ducks. Known as a physical and aggressive two-way defenceman, he began his NHL career with the Canucks after being selected 151st overall in the 2001 NHL entry draft and later joined the Ducks. He also co-hosts Hockey Night in Canada.
Quick Facts
- Birth Date
- 1981-06-16
- Birth Place
- Grimsby, Ontario, Canada
- Height Ft
- 6
- Height In
- 1
- Weight Lb
- 197
- Position
- Defence
- Shoots
- Right
- League
- NHL
- Played For
- Vancouver Canucks / Anaheim Ducks
- Ntl Team
- CAN
- Draft
- 151st overall
- Draft Year
- 2001
Facts from the source article.
Lore & Background
Bieksa grew up in Grimsby playing minor hockey for the Jr. Peach Kings and later the Stoney Creek Warriors. He played three seasons with the Burlington Cougars of the Ontario Junior Hockey League before attending Bowling Green State University, where he earned a bachelor's degree in finance and was a two-time CCHA All-Academic honourable mention. He was drafted by the Mississauga IceDogs of the Ontario Hockey League but chose to pursue an NCAA scholarship instead. After college, he signed with the Manitoba Moose of the American Hockey League, where he earned AHL All-Rookie Team honours and was given the nickname 'Juice' by goaltender Alex Auld. Bieksa made his NHL debut with the Vancouver Canucks on December 19, 2005, against the Los Angeles Kings. He scored his first NHL goal on October 13, 2006, against Vesa Toskala of the San Jose Sharks. During his first full NHL season, he led all Canucks defencemen in assists, points, and penalty minutes, and was awarded the Babe Pratt Trophy as best defenceman and the Fred J. Hume Award as unsung hero. He later played for the Anaheim Ducks.
Reader's Guide
Bieksa's career is notable for his transition from college hockey to the NHL, where he became a reliable physical defenceman. His nickname 'Juice' originated from a story involving a spilled beer and a fight with teammate Fedor Fedorov while with the Manitoba Moose, which reportedly impressed then-Canucks general manager Brian Burke. Bieksa represented Canada at the 2014 World Championship as team captain and was named one of three top players for Canada in the tournament; he also played for Canada at the 2018 Spengler Cup. After retiring from professional hockey, he became a television personality, co-hosting Hockey Night in Canada. His playing style was characterized by physicality and aggression, and he was known for his durability and defensive contributions.
Did You Know?
- Bieksa earned a bachelor's degree in finance from Bowling Green State University.
- He was selected as team captain for Canada at the 2014 World Championship.
- His nickname 'Juice' was given by Manitoba Moose goaltender Alex Auld.
- Bieksa was a two-time CCHA All-Academic honourable mention in 2003 and 2004.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Kevin Bieksa?
Kevin Francesco Bieksa is a Canadian former NHL defenceman born on June 16, 1981, in Grimsby, Ontario. He spent the later portion of his career as a gritty, two-way blueliner for the Anaheim Ducks after getting his start with the Vancouver Canucks.
What is Kevin Bieksa's nickname?
Bieksa is widely known by the nickname "Juice," a label that followed him through his NHL years. It captured his high-energy, physical approach to the game on the ice.
How did Kevin Bieksa enter the NHL?
The Vancouver Canucks picked him 151st overall in the 2001 NHL entry draft, a late-round selection that opened his professional path. He went on to play in the league from 2005 through 2018 before suiting up for Anaheim.
What made Kevin Bieksa stand out as a Ducks defenceman?
He was recognized as a hard-hitting, aggressive two-way player who could contribute offensively while still delivering a physical presence defensively. His willingness to engage in gritty, high-intensity battles made him a fan favorite in Anaheim.
What does Kevin Bieksa do after retiring from hockey?
After hanging up his skates, Bieksa moved into broadcasting and now co-hosts Hockey Night in Canada. This kept him actively involved in the sport while connecting with a broader audience of hockey fans.
More in Anaheim Ducks Players 1-24
Spotted an error? Know more?
Reader corrections go straight into our review queue. Suggest an edit · How this site is sourced