Nikolai Khabibulin is a retired Russian ice hockey goaltender who had a successful career in the National Hockey League (NHL) and internationally. He began his professional career in 1991 with the Soviet team, Sputnik Nizhny Tagil, before moving to the International Hockey League (IHL) in 1994 to play for the Indianapolis Ice.
Khabibulin was drafted by the Winnipeg Jets in 1992 and made his NHL debut in 1994. He played for several teams throughout his career, including the Phoenix Coyotes, Tampa Bay Lightning, Chicago Blackhawks, and Edmonton Oilers. He won the Stanley Cup with the Lightning in 2004 and was named the Most Valuable Player of the playoffs.
Khabibulin was known for his athleticism and quick reflexes in the net. He was also a skilled puck-handler and was often involved in setting up plays for his team. He was a three-time NHL All-Star and represented Russia in several international tournaments, including the Olympics and World Championships.
Off the ice, Khabibulin was involved in several legal issues, including a 2010 arrest for driving under the influence. He retired from professional hockey in 2014 and currently resides in Arizona.
Overall, Khabibulin had a successful career as a goaltender in the NHL and internationally. He was known for his athleticism and skill in the net, and his contributions helped lead the Tampa Bay Lightning to their first Stanley Cup victory in franchise history.
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