Erik Gudbranson is a Canadian professional ice hockey player who has played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for over a decade. He was born on January 7, 1992, in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, and began playing hockey at a young age. Gudbranson was a highly-touted prospect in his youth, and he was selected third overall by the Florida Panthers in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft.
Gudbranson made his NHL debut with the Panthers in 2011, and he quickly established himself as a physical and hard-nosed defenseman. He played for the Panthers for five seasons, during which time he became a fan favorite for his tough play and leadership on and off the ice. In 2016, Gudbranson was traded to the Vancouver Canucks in exchange for Jared McCann and draft picks.
Gudbranson played for the Canucks for three seasons, during which time he continued to be a physical presence on the ice. However, his offensive production was limited, and he struggled with injuries at times. In 2019, Gudbranson was traded to the Pittsburgh Penguins in exchange for Tanner Pearson.
Gudbranson played for the Penguins for one season, during which time he provided a physical presence on the blue line and helped the team make the playoffs. However, he was traded to the Anaheim Ducks in February 2020 in exchange for Andreas Martinsen and a draft pick.
Gudbranson played for the Ducks for one season before being traded to the Ottawa Senators in October 2020. He played for the Senators for one season, during which time he provided veteran leadership and a physical presence on the blue line. However, he was traded to the Nashville Predators in April 2021 in exchange for Brandon Fortunato and a draft pick.
Gudbranson played for the Predators for one season, during which time he continued to be a physical presence on the ice and helped the team make the playoffs. However, he became a free agent at the end of the season and signed with the New York Rangers in August 2022.
Throughout his career, Gudbranson has been known for his physical play, leadership, and defensive abilities. He has also been involved in various charitable endeavors, including the creation of the Gudbranson Foundation, which supports children's charities in Ottawa.
🏒