Mikael Samuelsson

Lore & Background

Samuelsson began his career in Sweden with IFK Mariefred, then played junior for Södertälje SK. He moved through Swedish clubs IK Nyköping, Frölunda HC, and Brynäs IF before being drafted by the San Jose Sharks in 1998. He came to North America for the 2000–01 season, spending short stints with the Sharks, New York Rangers, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Florida Panthers. During the 2004–05 NHL lockout, he returned to Europe, playing in Switzerland and Sweden. When NHL play resumed, he signed with the Detroit Red Wings, where he enjoyed individual and team success, winning the Stanley Cup in 2008. After four seasons in Detroit, he signed with the Vancouver Canucks in July 2009, recording back-to-back 50-point seasons. He was later traded back to the Panthers, then re-signed with the Red Wings in July 2012.

Reader's Guide

Samuelsson's significance lies in his journey from a late-round draft pick to a key contributor on a Stanley Cup-winning team and a member of the Triple Gold Club. His time with the Detroit Red Wings marked a turning point in his career, as he emerged as a legitimate offensive player, recording 23 goals and 45 points in his first season with the club. He helped the Red Wings win the Stanley Cup in 2008, scoring the first two goals of the Final series. His international achievements with Sweden—gold at the 2006 Olympics and 2006 World Championships—combined with his NHL championship place him among an elite group of players. After his playing career, he transitioned into coaching, becoming a player development coach for the Vancouver Canucks.

Did You Know?

• Samuelsson scored his first two NHL goals against goaltender Patrick Roy on November 20, 2001.
• He was part of an eight-player trade from the Rangers to the Penguins in February 2003.
• He recorded back-to-back 50-point seasons with the Vancouver Canucks in 2009–10 and 2010–11.
• Samuelsson is a member of the Triple Gold Club, having won the Stanley Cup, Olympic gold, and World Championship gold.