Steve Konowalchuk is a former professional ice hockey player who played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for over a decade. He was born on November 11, 1972, in Salt Lake City, Utah, and grew up in British Columbia, Canada. Konowalchuk began his hockey career in the Western Hockey League (WHL) with the Portland Winterhawks in 1988. He played for the Winterhawks for four seasons, during which he scored 146 goals and 197 assists in 232 games.
In 1991, Konowalchuk was drafted by the Washington Capitals in the third round of the NHL Entry Draft. He made his NHL debut with the Capitals in the 1991-92 season and played for the team for 11 seasons. During his time with the Capitals, Konowalchuk was known for his hard work, leadership, and defensive skills. He was often used as a penalty killer and was a key player on the team's checking line.
In 2002, Konowalchuk was traded to the Colorado Avalanche, where he played for three seasons. He continued to be a reliable defensive forward for the Avalanche and helped the team reach the playoffs in each of his three seasons with the team. In 2005, Konowalchuk was named the Avalanche's captain, a position he held until his retirement in 2006.
Throughout his NHL career, Konowalchuk played in 790 games, scoring 171 goals and 225 assists for a total of 396 points. He was also known for his physical play and willingness to stand up for his teammates. Konowalchuk was a fan favorite in both Washington and Colorado and was respected by his peers for his work ethic and dedication to the game.
After retiring from playing, Konowalchuk began a coaching career. He served as an assistant coach for the Seattle Thunderbirds of the WHL from 2007 to 2011 before being named the team's head coach in 2011. In his first season as head coach, Konowalchuk led the Thunderbirds to the WHL playoffs for the first time in five years. He continued to coach the team until 2017, when he was hired as an assistant coach for the Anaheim Ducks of the NHL.
In addition to his coaching career, Konowalchuk has also been involved in youth hockey development. He founded the Steve Konowalchuk Hockey School in 1998, which provides hockey instruction to players of all ages and skill levels. He has also been involved with USA Hockey, serving as a coach and mentor for young players.
Overall, Steve Konowalchuk had a successful career as a professional hockey player and has continued to make an impact on the sport through his coaching and development work. He is remembered as a hardworking and dedicated player who was respected by his teammates and opponents alike.
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