A skilled and versatile center who played over 1,000 NHL games, winning two Stanley Cups and earning a reputation as a strong two-way player. Known for his face-off prowess and clutch performances.
Antoine Vermette, a Canadian former professional ice hockey center, is known for his impressive 14-season stint in the National Hockey League (NHL), playing for five teams, including the Ottawa Senators, Columbus Blue Jackets, Arizona Coyotes, Chicago Blackhawks, and Anaheim Ducks. He is perhaps most celebrated for being a member of the 2007 Senators team that appeared in the Stanley Cup Finals and eventually winning the coveted trophy with the Chicago Blackhawks in 2015.
Vermette's love for hockey blossomed at a young age. As a youth, he played in the 1995 and 1996 Quebec International PeeWee Hockey Tournaments with minor ice hockey teams from Chaudire-Appalaches and South Shore in Quebec. He then went on to play four seasons in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL).
In 2000, Vermette was drafted in the second round, 55th overall, by the Ottawa Senators at the NHL Entry Draft. He returned to the QMJHL for two more seasons, recording a major junior career-high 119 points in 2000-01. However, his final year of junior hockey was cut short due to a misdiagnosed nerve problem in his neck, which was originally thought to be post-concussion syndrome. Despite this setback, Vermette made a remarkable comeback, contributing 26 points in 22 games and leading the Victoriaville Tigres to the 2002 Presidents Cup as QMJHL champions.
Vermette's impressive performance in the QMJHL earned him a spot on the Binghamton Senators, Ottawa's American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, for the 2002-03 season. In 74 games, he scored 18 goals and 20 assists, earning a place on the AHL All-Rookie Team. The following season, 2003-04, Vermette earned an NHL roster spot with Ottawa out of training camp. In his rookie NHL season, he appeared in 57 games, scoring 8 goals and 16 assists.
Throughout his NHL career, Vermette has been recognized for his exceptional skills on the ice. In 2015, he won the Stanley Cup with the Chicago Blackhawks, a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport.
Off the ice, Vermette is known for his humble and down-to-earth demeanor. He has been involved in various charitable initiatives, giving back to his community and inspiring the next generation of hockey players. As he looks back on his remarkable career, Vermette's legacy in the NHL is cemented as one of the most talented and dedicated players of his generation.
In conclusion, Antoine Vermette's remarkable NHL career is a testament to his perseverance, skill, and dedication to the sport. As he moves forward into the next chapter of his life, his legacy as an unsung hero of the NHL will continue to inspire and motivate future generations of hockey players.
38 Years Old
A highly skilled and dominant center in the National Hockey League, leading the Pittsburgh Penguins to multiple championships and earning numerous individual awards. Regarded by many as one of the greatest players of all time.
39 Years Old
Russian superstar forward dominating the NHL with incredible skill, scoring prowess, and three Stanley Cup championships. Regarded as one of the greatest players of his generation.
37 Years Old
A talented NHL center, known for his two-way playing style and consistent scoring, helping the Pittsburgh Penguins win the Stanley Cup in 2009.
45 Years Old
A four-time Stanley Cup champion and Olympic gold medalist, known for his gritty playing style and clutch performances.
46 Years Old
A skilled and speedy winger who played over 800 NHL games, winning a Stanley Cup with the Pittsburgh Penguins. Known for his two-way play and versatility.
44 Years Old
A two-time Stanley Cup champion and Olympic gold medalist, known for his rugged defensive play and leadership on the ice.
38 Years Old
A talented defenseman and three-time Stanley Cup champion, known for his exceptional speed, agility, and playmaking abilities on the ice.
44 Years Old
American professional ice hockey player who won two Stanley Cup championships and was a four-time NHL All-Star. Known for his rugged defensive play and physical presence on the ice.
