Marek Malik is a former professional ice hockey player from the Czech Republic. He played as a defenseman and was known for his size, strength, and defensive abilities. Malik began his professional career in the Czech Republic, playing for HC Verva Litvínov in the Czech Extraliga. He quickly established himself as a top defenseman in the league and was drafted by the Hartford Whalers in the 1993 NHL Entry Draft.
Malik made his NHL debut with the Whalers in the 1994-95 season and played with the team for three seasons before being traded to the Vancouver Canucks. He played with the Canucks for four seasons and was a key part of their defensive unit. Malik was known for his ability to shut down opposing forwards and was often paired with fellow defenseman Mattias Ohlund.
In 2002, Malik signed with the Carolina Hurricanes as a free agent. He played with the Hurricanes for two seasons before being traded to the Florida Panthers. Malik played with the Panthers for one season before being traded back to the Hurricanes. He played with the Hurricanes for one more season before signing with the New York Rangers in 2005.
Malik played with the Rangers for three seasons and was a fan favorite in New York. He was known for his shootout skills and scored a memorable goal in a shootout against the Washington Capitals in 2005. Malik's shootout goal, in which he deked Capitals goaltender Olaf Kolzig and scored with a between-the-legs shot, is considered one of the greatest shootout goals in NHL history.
Malik retired from professional hockey in 2009 after playing one season with HC Sparta Praha in the Czech Extraliga. He finished his NHL career with 338 points (43 goals, 295 assists) in 691 games. Malik was known for his defensive abilities and was a key part of several successful teams throughout his career. He was also known for his sportsmanship and was awarded the Lady Byng Trophy in 2006 for his gentlemanly conduct on the ice.
Overall, Marek Malik had a successful career as a professional ice hockey player. He was known for his size, strength, and defensive abilities and was a key part of several successful teams throughout his career. Malik was also known for his sportsmanship and was a fan favorite in New York for his shootout skills. He retired from professional hockey in 2009 after playing for over 15 years.
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