Current Team: Minnesota Wild
First NHL Team: Minnesota Wild
Position: Goaltender
Birthdate: Feb. 13, 1978
Birthplace: Helsinki, Finland
Niklas Backstrom always knew he wanted to be a hockey player. But in his early 20s, playing for his home country Finland, he almost gave up on his dream to play in the NHL. All it took was a couple good seasons for his luck to change.
After leading his Finnish team to championship victories and league records between 2004 and 2006, Niklas caught the attention of the Minnesota Wild GM, who took a chance and signed him for a one-year contract.
By the end of the first season Nicklas had established himself as the starting goalie with the Wild and one of the best goaltenders in the entire league.
Hockey Highlights
Niklas’ grandfather played in the Finnish professional league for several years, and his dad played goal for a junior hockey club.
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