Erik Haula Bio
Erik Haula is a Finnish professional ice hockey forward for the Nashville Predators of the National Hockey League (NHL). He has previously played for the Minnesota Wild, Vegas Golden Knights, Carolina Hurricanes, Florida Panthers, Boston Bruins, and New Jersey Devils. Haula was selected by the Wild in the seventh round, 182nd overall, of the 2009 NHL Entry Draft.
Early Life and Background
Erik Haula was born on 23 March 1991 in Pori, Finland. He began playing ice hockey at a young age, starting with his local club HC Ässät Pori. During the 2006–07 season, he showcased his talent by scoring 43 points in 29 games for the Ässät U18 team. The following year, he played for the Ässät U20 team in the U20 SM-sarja, where he scored 22 points in 40 games. Although Ässät lost in the finals of the U20 SM-sarja to KalPa, Haula’s performance caught the attention of scouts. He did not get playing time in Ässät’s SM-liiga lineup, which led him to seek opportunities abroad. Haula moved to the United States to further his career, playing for Shattuck-Saint Mary’s in Faribault, Minnesota, during the 2008–09 season. There, he tallied 24 goals and 55 assists for 79 points in 49 games played. In March 2009, he committed to the University of Minnesota, becoming only the second player born outside of North America to play for the Gophers.
Path to Hockey
Before attending the University of Minnesota, Erik Haula played in the United States Hockey League (USHL) with the Omaha Lancers for the 2009–10 season. He scored 28 goals and 44 assists with a plus-minus rating of +36, helping lead the Lancers to the Western Division finals. His performance earned him spots on the All-Star and All-Rookie teams. After his time in the USHL, Haula played three seasons of college ice hockey with the Gophers, totaling 42 goals, 82 assists, and 124 points in 114 games. He decided to forgo his senior year to sign professionally with the Minnesota Wild.
Erik Haula Career
Early Career (2013–2014)
Erik Haula signed an entry-level contract with the Minnesota Wild on 7 April 2013. He made his NHL debut on 29 November 2013, where he recorded his first NHL point, an assist, and was named the game’s third star in a 3–1 loss to the Colorado Avalanche. On 18 January 2014, he scored his first career NHL goal against the Dallas Stars. During the 2014 Stanley Cup playoffs, Haula contributed significantly, scoring four goals and three assists in 13 playoff games.
Breakthrough (2015–2017)
The 2015–16 season marked a breakout year for Erik Haula, as he set personal bests in goals, assists, and points, more than doubling his previous highs. He centered Minnesota’s third line, becoming a key player for the team. After the 2016–17 season, Haula was left exposed for the NHL Expansion Draft and was selected by the Vegas Golden Knights. He signed a three-year, $8.25 million deal with the Golden Knights and quickly became an integral part of the team.
Notable Works and Milestones
Haula had a career-high regular season in 2017–18, scoring 29 goals and 55 points through 76 games. He played a crucial role in the Golden Knights’ playoff run, scoring the second overtime game-winning goal in franchise history against the Los Angeles Kings.
Erik Haula Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Erik Haula has received recognition for his performances, particularly during his breakout season with the Minnesota Wild and his impactful contributions to the Vegas Golden Knights.
Erik Haula Awards Won
Erik Haula has not won any major awards but has been acknowledged for his contributions to his teams, especially during playoff seasons.
Erik Haula Family
Erik Haula attended the Swedish-speaking Björneborgs svenska samskola in his youth, which is known for producing talented ice hockey players. His father, Tomi Haula, is an agent who represents ice hockey players.
Personal Life
Erik Haula’s personal life remains relatively private. He has focused on his hockey career and has built a reputation as a dedicated player in the NHL. As of now, he continues to play for the Nashville Predators, having signed a three-year contract extension worth $9.45 million in June 2023.
