Dmitry Kulikov is a Russian professional ice hockey player who has had a successful career in the National Hockey League (NHL). He was born on October 29, 1990, in Lipetsk, Russia, and began playing hockey at a young age.
Kulikov was selected by the Florida Panthers in the first round of the 2009 NHL Entry Draft, seventh overall. He made his NHL debut with the Panthers in 2009 and played with the team for seven seasons. During his time with the Panthers, Kulikov established himself as a reliable defenseman and was known for his physical play and strong defensive skills.
In 2016, Kulikov was traded to the Buffalo Sabres, where he played for one season before being traded to the Winnipeg Jets. With the Jets, Kulikov continued to be a solid defenseman and played an important role in the team's success.
Throughout his NHL career, Kulikov has also represented Russia in international competitions. He has played in the World Junior Championships, the World Championships, and the Olympics.
Kulikov's career has not been without its challenges, however. He has suffered several injuries throughout his career, including a back injury that caused him to miss significant time during the 2017-2018 season. Despite these setbacks, Kulikov has remained a valuable player and has continued to contribute to his teams' success.
In 2022, Kulikov announced his retirement from professional hockey. He leaves behind a legacy as a skilled defenseman and a respected member of the hockey community.
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