Long-time NHL defenceman leaves North America after 16 seasons

After spending parts of 16 seasons in the National Hockey League, which included stops in seven different cities, defenceman Anton Stralman has decided to return to Europe.

On Saturday, it was revealed that Stralman has agreed to terms on a one-year deal with HV71 in the Swedish Hockey League.

Note: the following quote is translated from Swedish




The 36-year-old was originally drafted by Toronto in the seventh round back in 2005. He went on to appear in 938 games across 16 seasons with the Maple Leafs, Columbus Blue Jackets, New York Rangers, Tampa Bay Lightning, Florida Panthers, Arizona Coyotes and the Boston Bruins.

In those 938 games, the Tibro native recorded 293 points (63 goals, 230 assists), 287 penalty minutes and was a plus-46. Stralman also had 26 points (six goals, 20 assists) in 113 Stanley Cup Playoff games.

Source: HV71