Mika Zibanejad: Stats, News & Updates | NHL Star Profile
Is Mika Zibanejad, the Swedish sensation dominating the ice for the New York Rangers, truly living up to his potential? His remarkable journey, marked by consistent performance and an unwavering commitment to the game, positions him as a key player in the NHL.
The story of Mika Zibanejad, the skilled center who currently serves as an alternative captain for the New York Rangers, is one of dedication, talent, and a deep love for the sport of ice hockey. Born in Huddinge, Sweden, Zibanejads journey to becoming a prominent figure in the NHL is a testament to his hard work and perseverance. His father, Mehrdad, hails from Iran, while his mother, Ritva, is from Paltamo, Finland, a diverse heritage that has undoubtedly shaped his perspective.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Mika Zibanejad |
| Date of Birth | April 18, 1993 |
| Birthplace | Huddinge Municipality, Sweden |
| Nationality | Swedish |
| Height | 6 ft 2 in (188 cm) |
| Weight | 205 lb (93 kg) |
| Position | Center |
| Current Team | New York Rangers (NHL) |
| NHL Draft | 2011, 6th overall by the Ottawa Senators |
| Jersey Number | 93 |
| Contract | 8 years, $68,000,000 (with New York Rangers) |
| Annual Salary | $8,500,000 |
| Marital Status | Married to Irma Helin |
| Parents | Mehrdad Zibanejad, Ritva |
| Career Highlights | Alternate Captain for the New York Rangers, Consistent point scorer |
| NHL Debut | 2011-2012 with Ottawa Senators |
| Total NHL Games Played (as of 2024) | 929 |
| Goals (as of 2024) | 312 |
| Assists (as of 2024) | 425 |
| Points (as of 2024) | 737 |
| Reference | ESPN Player Profile |
Zibanejad's professional journey commenced with the Ottawa Senators, where he made his NHL debut, setting the stage for a career filled with impressive achievements. He was drafted sixth overall by the Ottawa Senators in 2011, a clear indication of the high expectations placed on him. Before making his mark in the NHL, he honed his skills playing for Djurgrdens IF in Sweden.
His move to the New York Rangers in 2016 marked a pivotal point in his career, where he quickly established himself as a key player. For the Rangers, he has played 14 seasons in total, including the time spent with the Senators. The transition proved fruitful, as Zibanejad flourished, becoming a vital component of the team's offensive strategy and a fan favorite. In his role as a center, he has consistently displayed the skills of a true playmaker, effortlessly setting up scoring opportunities and showcasing exceptional hockey sense.
The numbers speak volumes about Zibanejads impact. Last season, for the third time in four years, he reset his career high in points, with 39 goals and 52 assists in 82 games. His ability to consistently contribute in the offensive zone is a testament to his skill and dedication. His contract with the Rangers, an 8-year deal worth $68,000,000, with a cap hit of $8,500,000 per season, reflects the team's belief in his value and his importance to their long-term goals.
Zibanejad's performance on the ice has not gone unnoticed. He is currently playing for the New York Rangers in the NHL, and his impact can be seen in every game. On December 20, 2024, he was seen playing against the Dallas Stars at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas, further highlighting his presence in the league.
Despite his offensive prowess, there have been some challenges. This season, opposing teams are scoring an average of 4.11 goals per 60 minutes while Zibanejad is on the ice at 5v5, according to available statistics. This suggests that, at times, his defensive game has been affected. At one point, his ice time in a game against the Blues was the lowest since he joined the Rangers in July 2016, reflecting an ongoing evaluation of his role.
His scoring ability, however, remains a key asset. With a history of high point totals, including seasons with 81, 91, and 72 points, Zibanejad has proven his ability to generate offense consistently. At the age of 32, he has many seasons ahead of him, meaning that he can improve even more. The talent of a player like Zibanejad does not simply diminish, he has the ability to improve with more experience, which makes him a valuable asset to the New York Rangers.
The contract signed by Zibanejad with the New York Rangers, including a significant signing bonus, underscores the team's investment in his talent. While precise details on his yearly earnings vary, it's reported that he earns around $4,750,000 annually, reflecting his value to the organization.
His impact is not just limited to the ice. Zibanejad married Irma Helin, a former professional soccer player from Sweden, forming a strong bond and a shared love for sports. His parents, Mehrdad and Ritva, have always supported him, with his father leaving Iran at a young age. Together, they reflect the diverse influences that have shaped him.
Zibanejad's statistics across his career are impressive. He has scored 312 goals and provided 425 assists in 929 NHL games. His career includes significant achievements, including being drafted by the Ottawa Senators in 2011. The complete career stats for the New York Rangers center are available on platforms such as ESPN, including goals, assists, and points per NHL season.
In summary, Mika Zibanejad is more than just a player; he is an athlete who has made an impact on the NHL. His ability to constantly get better and adapt to changes is an essential part of his performance. His journey is one of the most inspiring stories in hockey. He is a testament to the power of dedication and the pursuit of excellence in sports.
