Jason Ward is a former professional ice hockey player who played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for several teams. He was born on January 16, 1978, in Chapleau, Ontario, Canada. Ward began his hockey career in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) with the Erie Otters in 1994. He played for the Otters for three seasons before being drafted by the Montreal Canadiens in the first round of the 1997 NHL Entry Draft.
Ward made his NHL debut with the Canadiens in the 1998-1999 season. He played for the Canadiens for three seasons before being traded to the New York Rangers in 2003. Ward played for the Rangers for two seasons before being traded to the Los Angeles Kings in 2005. He played for the Kings for one season before being traded to the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2006. Ward played for the Lightning for one season before being traded to the Minnesota Wild in 2007. He played for the Wild for one season before signing with the KHL team, Dynamo Moscow, in 2008. Ward played for Dynamo Moscow for one season before retiring from professional hockey in 2009.
Throughout his NHL career, Ward played in 336 games and scored 44 goals and 51 assists for a total of 95 points. He was known for his physical play and his ability to play both forward and defense positions. Ward was also known for his leadership skills and was often named an alternate captain for his teams.
After retiring from professional hockey, Ward became involved in coaching and player development. He worked as an assistant coach for the OHL's Erie Otters from 2010 to 2012. He also worked as a player development coach for the NHL's Dallas Stars from 2012 to 2014. Ward currently works as a player development coach for the NHL's New York Islanders.
In addition to his hockey career, Ward is also known for his charitable work. He founded the Jason Ward Family Foundation in 2003, which provides financial assistance to families in need. The foundation also supports various charities, including the Canadian Cancer Society and the Ronald McDonald House.
Overall, Jason Ward had a successful hockey career, playing for several NHL teams and earning a reputation as a physical player and a leader. He has since transitioned into coaching and player development, and continues to make a positive impact both on and off the ice.
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