Adam Larsson Bio
Nils Erik Adam Larsson is a Swedish professional ice hockey player who is a defenceman and alternate captain for the Seattle Kraken of the National Hockey League (NHL). He was selected fourth overall by the New Jersey Devils in the 2011 NHL entry draft. The youngest player on the Skellefteå AIK squad at the time of his draft, Larsson was the first defenceman and first European-trained player to be drafted in 2011.
Early Life and Background
Adam Larsson was born on 12 November 1992 in Skellefteå, Sweden, to ice hockey player Robert Larsson. His father played 249 games with Skellefteå AIK from 1985 to 1995. Despite being drafted in the sixth round, 112th overall, by the Los Angeles Kings during the 1988 NHL entry draft, he never played in North America. Adam Larsson is the middle child between his older brother Hampus and younger sister Julia.
Path to Hockey
Larsson began his hockey career with Skellefteå AIK, where he played in the J20 SuperElit, Sweden’s junior league, during the 2008–09 season alongside his brother Hampus. The 2009–10 Elitserien season marked a breakthrough for Larsson, as he scored two goals in a game against Timrå IK on 15 October 2009. By the end of that season, he had tied Tomas Jonsson’s record for points collected by Elitserien defencemen under age 18 with 17 points. Although his 2010–11 season was limited due to a groin injury, Larsson’s performance earned him a nomination for the Elitserien Rookie of the Year award.
Adam Larsson Career
Early Career (2009–2011)
Adam Larsson’s professional career began in 2009 with Skellefteå AIK, where he quickly made a name for himself. He was drafted fourth overall by the New Jersey Devils in the 2011 NHL entry draft, marking a significant milestone in his career. Larsson signed a three-year, entry-level contract with the Devils on 15 July 2011 and made the team following training camp, becoming the first 18-year-old defenceman to dress for the Devils since Petr Sykora in the 1995-96 season.
Breakthrough (2011–2016)
Larsson made his NHL debut with the New Jersey Devils in the 2011-12 season, where he quickly established himself as a key player. He scored his first career NHL goal shortly after his 19th birthday and led all rookie defencemen with two goals and 11 assists by mid-November. His performance earned him a selection to the NHL All-Star Rookie SuperSkills Competition, although he withdrew due to injury. Larsson’s rookie season culminated in a playoff appearance, where he became the first Devils rookie defenceman to score a goal in his first playoff game.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his early career, Adam Larsson became known for his solid defensive play and ability to contribute offensively. He finished his rookie season with two goals and 16 assists over 65 games and received recognition for his performance, including a fifth-place vote for the Calder Memorial Trophy.
New Jersey Devils (2011–2016)
Larsson’s time with the New Jersey Devils was marked by both challenges and achievements. After a promising start, he faced injuries that limited his playtime. Despite these setbacks, he continued to develop his game and contributed significantly to the team’s defense. In the 2015 offseason, he signed a six-year, $25 million contract to remain with the Devils.
Edmonton Oilers (2016–2021)
On 29 June 2016, Larsson was traded to the Edmonton Oilers in exchange for Taylor Hall, a move that drew mixed reactions from fans and analysts. He quickly became a key player for the Oilers, forming a strong defensive pairing with Oscar Klefbom. Larsson played a crucial role in the Oilers’ playoff run in 2017, where he helped the team reach the second round.
Seattle Kraken (2021–present)
Adam Larsson was selected by the Seattle Kraken during the 2021 NHL expansion draft and signed a four-year, $16 million contract. He was named an alternate captain for the Kraken and continued to showcase his skills on the ice. In his first season with the Kraken, he recorded a career-high 25 points and played a vital role in the team’s defensive lineup.
Adam Larsson Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Adam Larsson has received various nominations, including a fifth-place vote for the Calder Memorial Trophy during his rookie season.
Adam Larsson Awards Won
Adam Larsson has been recognized for his contributions to the sport, including winning a gold medal with Team Sweden at the 2018 IIHF World Championship.
Adam Larsson Family
Adam Larsson is the son of Robert Larsson, a former ice hockey player. He has an older brother, Hampus, and a younger sister, Julia.
Personal Life
Adam Larsson has faced personal challenges, including the passing of his father, which impacted his career. He continues to be an influential figure in the hockey community and a dedicated player for the Seattle Kraken.
