Written by: Victor Malone

Jakob Chychrun: The Rising Star of Ice Hockey

Jakob Chychrun is a formidable American-Canadian professional ice hockey defenseman, currently playing for the Washington Capitals in the National Hockey League (NHL). Drafted 16th overall by the Arizona Coyotes at the 2016 NHL Entry Draft, Chychrun has quickly become one of the most promising young players in the league.

Early Life and Personal Background

Born on March 31, 1998, in Boca Raton, Florida, Chychrun comes from a hockey-loving family. His father, Jeff, is a former NHL defenseman, and his uncle, Luke Richardson, is a former NHL defenseman and current head coach of the Chicago Blackhawks. Chychrun's mother, Nancy, is of Ukrainian and Jewish descent, making him a dual American-Canadian citizen.

Minor Hockey Career

Chychrun's hockey journey began in his home state of Florida, playing for the Junior Everblades and the Florida Jr. Panthers organizations. At 13, he joined the Little Caesars hockey organization in Detroit, Michigan, where he excelled during his major bantam season. Chychrun continued to play for Little Caesars' U16 team, commuting from Florida to Michigan on weekends.

Major Junior Career

In 2013, Chychrun was drafted by the Youngstown Phantoms in the USHL draft. However, due to USA Hockey's rules, he was denied a special exemption to play junior hockey at 15. Instead, he played his minor midget season for the Toronto Jr. Canadiens in the Greater Toronto Hockey League. Following his outstanding GTHL season, Chychrun was selected first overall by the Sarnia Sting in the 2014 OHL Priority Selection.

NHL Career

Chychrun's impressive performance in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) earned him a spot in the 2016 NHL Entry Draft, where he was picked 16th overall by the Arizona Coyotes. He made his NHL debut in 2016-2017, playing 68 games and scoring 20 points. In 2022, Chychrun was traded to the Washington Capitals, where he continues to forge his path as one of the league's top defensemen.

Philanthropy and Awareness

After his cousin Daron's suicide, Chychrun founded the Do It For Daron (DIFD) movement to raise awareness and spark conversations about suicide and youth mental health. Through DIFD, Chychrun aims to create a safe space for young people to discuss their struggles and seek support.

Awards and Honors

• NHL All-Rookie Team (2017)
• OHL First All-Rookie Team (2015-2016)

Trivia and Fun Facts

• Chychrun is the first player from Florida to be drafted in the first round of the NHL Entry Draft.
• He is also the first player from the Sarnia Sting to be drafted in the first round since 2009.

Jakob Chychrun's remarkable journey, both on and off the ice, has cemented his position as one of the most promising young players in the NHL. His dedication to philanthropy and awareness, combined with his exceptional skills on the ice, make him an inspiration to many.