Jan Erixon is a former professional ice hockey player from Sweden who played for the New York Rangers in the National Hockey League (NHL) for over a decade. He was known for his defensive skills and his ability to play in all situations, including penalty killing and power play.
Erixon began his professional career in Sweden, playing for Skellefteå AIK in the Swedish Hockey League (SHL). He was drafted by the New York Rangers in the third round of the 1981 NHL Entry Draft and made his NHL debut in the 1983-84 season. He quickly established himself as a reliable defensive forward, earning a reputation as one of the best penalty killers in the league.
Erixon's best season came in 1985-86, when he scored 20 goals and 41 points in 74 games. He also helped the Rangers reach the playoffs for the first time in five years. Erixon continued to be a key player for the Rangers throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s, helping the team reach the Stanley Cup Finals in 1994.
In addition to his success in the NHL, Erixon also represented Sweden in international competition. He played in the 1984 Winter Olympics and the 1987 Canada Cup, helping Sweden win a bronze medal in the latter tournament.
Erixon's career was cut short by injuries, and he retired from professional hockey in 1995. He finished his NHL career with 133 goals and 338 points in 556 games, along with a reputation as one of the best defensive forwards of his era. After retiring, Erixon returned to Sweden and became a coach, working with several teams in the SHL and the Swedish national team.
Overall, Jan Erixon was a highly respected and skilled player who made a significant impact on the New York Rangers and the NHL during his career. His defensive abilities and work ethic made him a fan favorite and a valuable asset to any team he played for.
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