Gino Odjick was a Canadian professional ice hockey player who played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for 12 seasons. He was known for his physical play and fighting skills, and was a fan favorite for his toughness and loyalty to his teammates.
Odjick began his NHL career with the Vancouver Canucks in 1990, where he quickly established himself as a tough enforcer on the ice. He played for the Canucks for seven seasons, during which time he became a beloved figure in the city and a fan favorite for his willingness to stand up for his teammates.
In 1997, Odjick was traded to the New York Islanders, where he played for one season before being traded again to the Philadelphia Flyers. He played for the Flyers for two seasons before being traded back to the Canucks in 2000.
Odjick's final two seasons in the NHL were spent with the Montreal Canadiens, where he played a limited role as a fourth-line enforcer. He retired from professional hockey in 2002, having played in 605 NHL games and scoring 64 goals and 73 assists.
Off the ice, Odjick was known for his charitable work and his dedication to helping Indigenous communities in Canada. He was a member of the Algonquin First Nation and used his platform as a professional athlete to raise awareness about Indigenous issues and to support Indigenous youth programs.
In 2014, Odjick announced that he had been diagnosed with a rare heart condition called AL amyloidosis, which affects the heart and other organs. He underwent treatment for the condition, including a stem cell transplant, and was able to make a full recovery.
Today, Odjick is remembered as one of the toughest and most beloved enforcers in NHL history, and as a dedicated advocate for Indigenous communities in Canada. His legacy continues to inspire young Indigenous athletes and activists, and his impact on the sport of hockey will be felt for generations to come.
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