Pekka Rinne is a Finnish professional ice hockey goaltender who has spent his entire career with the Nashville Predators of the National Hockey League (NHL). He was drafted by the Predators in the eighth round of the 2004 NHL Entry Draft and made his NHL debut in 2005.
Rinne quickly established himself as one of the top goaltenders in the league, earning his first All-Star selection in 2015. He was a finalist for the Vezina Trophy, awarded to the NHL's top goaltender, in 2011, 2012, and 2015, ultimately winning the award in 2018.
Throughout his career, Rinne has been known for his size, athleticism, and ability to make acrobatic saves. He has also been praised for his work ethic and leadership, serving as an alternate captain for the Predators.
Rinne has had several notable accomplishments during his career. In 2017, he became the first goaltender in NHL history to score a goal in a game he started and won. He also helped lead the Predators to the Stanley Cup Final in 2017, where they ultimately lost to the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Off the ice, Rinne has been involved in several charitable endeavors. He established the 365 Pediatric Cancer Fund in 2013, which raises money for cancer research and treatment at Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt.
As of 2021, Rinne has announced his retirement from the NHL after 15 seasons with the Predators. He leaves behind a legacy as one of the greatest goaltenders in franchise history, holding several team records including most wins, shutouts, and games played by a goaltender.
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