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Steve ValiquetteCanadian ice hockey goalie.
Date of Birth: 20.08.1977
Country:  Canada |
Content:
- Early Life and Career
- NHL Debut
- Return to the NHL
- Comeback in North America
- Return to the Rangers
- Post-Season Play
- International Experience
- Later Career
- Awards and Accolades
Early Life and Career
Canadian ice hockey goaltender Steve Valiquette began his professional career in 1994 with the Sudbury Wolves of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). In 1996, he was drafted into the NHL by the Los Angeles Kings in the 8th round, 190th overall.
NHL Debut
After signing with the New York Islanders in 1998, Valiquette made his NHL debut on March 9, 2000, against the Phoenix Coyotes. He played 20 minutes, making four saves out of five shots. That season, he appeared in five more games, recording two wins.
Return to the NHL
Following a three-year hiatus, Valiquette returned to the NHL in 2003 as an unrestricted free agent, signing with the Edmonton Oilers. He played limited ice time that season but was assigned to their AHL affiliate, the Toronto Roadrunners.
Comeback in North America
On March 3, 2004, Valiquette was traded to the New York Rangers. After the lockout-shortened season, he departed for Europe, joining Lokomotiv Yaroslavl of the Russian Superleague. In 53 games with Yaroslavl, he boasted a 2.11 goals-against average.
Return to the Rangers
In July 2006, the Rangers reacquired Valiquette as backup to Henrik Lundqvist. On January 31, 2008, he recorded his first NHL shutout against the Philadelphia Flyers, a feat he repeated 10 days later.
Post-Season Play
Valiquette made his NHL playoff debut in 2009. However, he also experienced a challenging outing on February 6, 2009, surrendering 10 goals against the Dallas Stars.
International Experience
On July 15, 2010, Valiquette returned to Russia, signing with CSKA Moscow. He played 35 games for CSKA during the 2010-11 season with a 2.94 goals-against average. In 2012, he joined Valpellice in the Italian Serie A and became the league's leader in save percentage with 94%.
Later Career
Valiquette played with Växjö Lakers of the Swedish Elite League before ending his career in 2013.
Awards and Accolades
AHL All-Star Game Appearance (2005)Hap Holmes Memorial Award (Best Goaltending Duo in the AHL, 2005)
Victoria Cup (AHL Playoff Championship, 2008)
Best Save Percentage in the Italian Serie A (2012)
