Austin Strand Bio
Austin Strand is a Canadian professional ice hockey defenceman for the Utica Comets of the American Hockey League (AHL). He was born on February 17, 1997, in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Over his career, he has played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for the Los Angeles Kings and the Anaheim Ducks, contributing to various teams since beginning his career in 2018.
Early Life and Background
Austin Strand was born to parents Leanne and Wade in Calgary, Alberta. He grew up alongside his older brother Coleton and sister Krysten. From a young age, Strand was immersed in hockey, playing with Austin Wagner on the Calgary Bantam AA Blazers during their 2010–11 season. Both players were later promoted to the Bantam AAA Northstar Sabres and then to the Midget AAA Calgary Northstars, where they honed their skills and developed a passion for the sport. Strand’s early exposure to competitive hockey laid the foundation for his future career. He displayed a strong commitment to the game, which was evident in his training and performance on the ice. His formative years were marked by a dedication to improving his skills, which would later serve him well in his professional career.
Path to Hockey
After his time with the Calgary Northstars, Austin Strand was drafted in the third round, 48th overall, by the Red Deer Rebels of the Western Hockey League (WHL). He was re-assigned to the AAA team for one final season before making his WHL debut in 2014. Strand credited his off-season training, both physically and mentally, as crucial to his success in joining the Rebels’ lineup. He recorded his first career WHL goal in a game against the Victoria Royals on October 14, 2014. His performance caught the attention of NHL scouts leading up to the 2015 NHL Entry Draft, although he ultimately went undrafted. Strand returned to the Rebels for the 2015–16 season, where he continued to develop his skills and was named to the NHL Central Scouting Bureau Player To Watch List. His strong performance helped push the Rebels to the 2016 Memorial Cup, showcasing his potential as a player. Throughout his junior career, he demonstrated both offensive ability and a strong defensive presence, which would become hallmarks of his playing style.
Austin Strand Career
Early Career (2018–2020)
Austin Strand began his professional career in 2018 after signing a three-year, entry-level contract with the Los Angeles Kings on November 28, 2017. He finished his final junior season with the Rebels, recording 25 goals and 39 assists for 64 points over 69 games. Strand joined the Kings’ American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Ontario Reign, to complete the 2017–18 season. During the 2018–19 season, Strand was loaned to the ECHL’s Manchester Monarchs, where he tallied two points in six games before being recalled to the Reign. He made his AHL debut on November 25, 2018, and contributed an assist in a thrilling 7–6 overtime win against the Tucson Roadrunners. His performance in the AHL helped establish him as a reliable player in the league.
Breakthrough (2021–2022)
Strand’s breakthrough came during the 2020–21 season when he was re-signed by the Kings to a one-year contract. He was named to the Kings’ taxi squad as part of their opening night roster. On February 5, 2021, he made his NHL debut in a game against the Vegas Golden Knights. This marked a significant milestone in his career, allowing him to showcase his skills at the highest level of professional hockey. Following his time with the Kings, Strand signed a one-year, two-way contract with the Anaheim Ducks on July 14, 2022. He made five scoreless appearances with the Ducks early in the 2022–23 season, primarily playing with their AHL affiliate, the San Diego Gulls. On March 3, 2023, he was traded to the Buffalo Sabres, where he continued to develop his game.
Notable Works and Milestones
Austin Strand’s signature work includes his contributions to the Los Angeles Kings and Anaheim Ducks, where he made significant strides in his career. His ability to adapt and perform in high-pressure situations has earned him recognition within the league.
Austin Strand Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Austin Strand has been recognized for his contributions on the ice, although specific award nominations have not been detailed in the available information.
Austin Strand Awards Won
Austin Strand has not received any major awards during his professional hockey career as of now.
Austin Strand Family
Austin Strand was born to Leanne and Wade Strand. He has two siblings, an older brother named Coleton and a sister named Krysten. The family has been supportive of his hockey career, providing encouragement throughout his journey in the sport.
Personal Life
There is limited public information available about Austin Strand’s personal life, including details about his marital status or relationships. As a professional athlete, he tends to keep his personal life private, focusing primarily on his career in hockey.
