Justin Abdelkader is a former professional ice hockey player who played for the Detroit Red Wings of the National Hockey League (NHL). He was born on February 25, 1987, in Muskegon, Michigan, and grew up playing hockey in the state.
Abdelkader played college hockey at Michigan State University, where he was a standout player. He was drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in the second round of the 2005 NHL Entry Draft and made his NHL debut in 2008.
Throughout his career, Abdelkader was known for his physical play and his ability to score goals. He was a key player for the Red Wings, helping them win the Stanley Cup in 2008 and reach the playoffs in several other seasons.
Abdelkader was also a member of the United States men's national ice hockey team, representing his country in several international tournaments. He won a bronze medal at the 2013 IIHF World Championships and played in the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia.
In 2016, Abdelkader signed a seven-year contract extension with the Red Wings, worth $29.75 million. However, his production on the ice began to decline, and he was eventually bought out of his contract in 2020.
Abdelkader announced his retirement from professional hockey in 2021, ending a career that spanned over a decade. He finished with 106 goals and 146 assists in 739 NHL games, along with 1,120 penalty minutes.
Off the ice, Abdelkader was known for his charitable work and his involvement in the community. He founded the Justin Abdelkader Foundation, which supports children's charities in Michigan. He was also active in promoting hockey in the state, working with youth hockey programs and serving as an ambassador for the sport.
Overall, Justin Abdelkader had a successful career in professional hockey, playing for one of the most storied franchises in the NHL and representing his country on the international stage. He will be remembered for his physical play, his scoring ability, and his commitment to giving back to the community.
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