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Martin HavlatProfessional Czech ice hockey player, forward
Date of Birth: 19.04.1981
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Content:
- Martin Havlat: A Czech Hockey Star
- NHL Debut and Rookie Success
- Ottawa Senators and Injury
- Chicago Blackhawks and Contract Negotiations
- NHL All-Star and Continued Injuries
- Minnesota Wild and Seasoned Veteran
- International Play and Personal Life
Martin Havlat: A Czech Hockey Star
Early Life and CareerMartin Havlat, a professional Czech hockey player, was born in Mlada Boleslav, Czechoslovakia, in 1981. He began his playing career in the Czech Republic and made his NHL debut in 2000 after being drafted in the first round, 26th overall, by the Ottawa Senators in 1999.
NHL Debut and Rookie Success
Havlat made an impressive NHL debut, earning his first point with an assist in his first game against the Boston Bruins in October 2000. Just over a week later, he scored his first goal against the Toronto Maple Leafs. In his 73-game rookie season, he amassed 42 points (19 goals and 23 assists), including his first NHL hat-trick. Havlat's exceptional play earned him the title of "Rookie of the Year" for the regular season.
Ottawa Senators and Injury
Havlat became a key player for the Ottawa Senators, stepping into the role vacated by Alexei Yashin. However, in the 2005-2006 season, he sustained a severe injury that limited him to just 18 regular season games. Despite missing the rest of the season, he emerged as a leader in the playoffs, recording 13 points in 10 games.
Chicago Blackhawks and Contract Negotiations
In 2006, Havlat became a free agent, sparking interest from three major clubs. After a bidding war, he signed a three-year, $18 million contract with the Chicago Blackhawks. He quickly became the team's leading scorer. However, his first season ended prematurely due to an injury sustained against the Dallas Stars in October.
NHL All-Star and Continued Injuries
Havlat returned to the ice in December and promptly scored twice against the Minnesota Wild. He was selected to participate in the 2007 NHL All-Star Game, his first such appearance. Unfortunately, injuries continued to plague him, and he underwent shoulder surgery that forced him to miss the end of the 2006-07 season.
Minnesota Wild and Seasoned Veteran
After recovering, Havlat played for the Blackhawks in the 2007-08 season. The following season, he failed to reach an agreement on a contract extension, leading to his departure. He signed a six-year, $30 million contract with the Minnesota Wild.
International Play and Personal Life
Havlat represented the Czech Republic at the 2002 Olympics, scoring three goals. A shoulder injury prevented him from competing in the 2006 Olympics. He returned to the Olympic stage in 2010, joining legendary teammates Jaromir Jagr, Patrik Elias, and Milan Michalek.
Havlat currently resides in Brno, Czech Republic, during the off-season. He is fluent in both Czech and English.
