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Petteri NummelinFinnish hockey player, defenseman
Date of Birth: 25.11.1972
Country:  Finland |
Content:
- Early Life and Career
- NHL Draft and Early NHL Career
- Return to NHL and International Success
- Finnish National Team
- Post-Playing Career
Early Life and Career
Born in Turku, Finland, Petteri Nummelin began his hockey career with the Turku hockey school. He made his debut in the Finnish league with Kiекko-67 and TPS. In the early 2000s, he moved to Sweden, Switzerland, and the United States.
NHL Draft and Early NHL Career
In 2000, Nummelin was drafted by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the fifth round. He played one season in the NHL, recording 16 points in 61 games. In 2001, he returned to Switzerland, joining HC Lugano.
Return to NHL and International Success
Nummelin returned to the NHL in 2006, playing for the Minnesota Wild. Over three seasons, he accumulated 45 points in 139 games. In 2008, he returned to Lugano, where he remained until 2012.
Finnish National Team
Nummelin made his debut for the Finnish national team in 1994. He competed in eight major tournaments, winning an Olympic silver medal in 2006 and seven medals at the World Championships. In 1995, he led Finland to their first-ever World Championship title. In 2010, he became the record holder for most World Championship appearances, surpassing Jiří Holík and Sven Tumba-Johansson. He was also named the tournament's best defenseman that year.
Post-Playing Career
Nummelin retired from professional hockey in 2018. He currently serves as a scout for the Columbus Blue Jackets.
