Jay Harrison is a former professional ice hockey player who played as a defenseman in the National Hockey League (NHL). He was born on November 3, 1982, in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada. Harrison began his hockey career in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) with the Brampton Battalion in 1999. He played for the Battalion for four seasons, from 1999 to 2003, and was named the team's captain in his final year.
After his junior career, Harrison was drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the third round of the 2001 NHL Entry Draft. He spent the next few years playing in the American Hockey League (AHL) for the St. John's Maple Leafs and the Toronto Marlies. Harrison made his NHL debut with the Maple Leafs in the 2005-06 season, playing in 11 games and recording one assist.
In the summer of 2008, Harrison signed as a free agent with the Carolina Hurricanes. He spent the next six seasons with the Hurricanes, becoming a regular on their blue line. Harrison was known for his physical play and shot-blocking ability, and he was a key penalty killer for the Hurricanes. He also chipped in offensively, scoring a career-high six goals and 15 points in the 2010-11 season.
In the 2014-15 season, Harrison was traded to the Winnipeg Jets in exchange for a sixth-round draft pick. He played in 20 games for the Jets, recording one assist. After the season, Harrison became an unrestricted free agent and signed a one-year contract with the Colorado Avalanche. However, he did not play a game for the Avalanche and was placed on waivers in October 2015. He was claimed by the Winnipeg Jets, but was immediately placed on waivers again and sent to the AHL's Manitoba Moose.
Harrison announced his retirement from professional hockey in January 2016, citing a desire to spend more time with his family. He played a total of 372 NHL games over his career, scoring 20 goals and 50 assists for 70 points. He also played in 16 playoff games, recording one assist.
Off the ice, Harrison was known for his charitable work. He was a frequent visitor to local hospitals and schools, and he was involved with the Hurricanes' Kids 'N Community Foundation. He was also a member of the NHLPA's Goals & Dreams program, which provides equipment to underprivileged children.
In conclusion, Jay Harrison had a successful career as a defenseman in the NHL, playing for the Toronto Maple Leafs, Carolina Hurricanes, Winnipeg Jets, and Colorado Avalanche. He was known for his physical play, shot-blocking ability, and penalty killing skills. He retired in 2016 after playing 372 NHL games and was also known for his charitable work off the ice.
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