Jordan Staal Bio
Jordan Staal is a Canadian professional ice hockey player who serves as a centre and captain for the Carolina Hurricanes in the National Hockey League (NHL). Born on September 10, 1988, in Thunder Bay, Ontario, he is known for his strong two-way play and penalty-killing ability. Staal achieved significant early success, becoming the youngest player in NHL history to score a hat trick at 18 years and 153 days. Over his career, he has played major roles in his teams’ successes, including winning the Stanley Cup with the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2009.
Early Life and Background
Jordan Staal was born and raised in Thunder Bay, Ontario, where he grew up playing minor ice hockey for the Thunder Bay Kings AAA organization. His early exposure to the sport came from playing on an outdoor rink built by his father, Henry, alongside his three brothers. The Staal family has a rich hockey heritage, with all four brothers having played in the NHL. Staal’s older brother, Eric, was drafted second overall in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft, paving the way for Jordan’s own aspirations in professional hockey. After his minor midget year, Jordan was selected in the first round (2nd overall) by the Peterborough Petes in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL).
Path to Hockey
Staal played major junior hockey with the Peterborough Petes for two seasons, starting in 2004. During his second year, he produced at a point-per-game pace, scoring 28 goals and 68 points in 68 games, which helped lead the Petes to the J. Ross Robertson Cup as OHL champions. His performance earned him a berth in the 2006 Memorial Cup. Following his successful junior career, Staal was drafted second overall by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft. He made an immediate impact in the NHL, setting several records during his rookie season, including being the youngest player to score on a penalty shot and to score two shorthanded goals in one game.
Jordan Staal Career
Early Career (2006–2012)
Jordan Staal signed a three-year, entry-level contract with the Pittsburgh Penguins on October 2, 2006, and made his NHL debut shortly thereafter. He scored his first NHL goal on October 12, 2006, against the New York Rangers. Staal’s rookie season was remarkable, as he became the youngest player in NHL history to score a hat trick on February 10, 2007, against the Toronto Maple Leafs. He completed his rookie season with 29 goals and was nominated for the Calder Memorial Trophy, finishing third in the voting. Staal was also named to the NHL All-Rookie Team. In 2009, he played a crucial role in the Penguins’ Stanley Cup victory, contributing two goals and an assist in the finals against the Detroit Red Wings.
Breakthrough (2012–Present)
In June 2012, Staal was traded to the Carolina Hurricanes, where he joined his brother Eric. He signed a ten-year, $60 million extension with the Hurricanes shortly after the trade. Staal was named co-captain of the Hurricanes in October 2017 and later became the sole captain in September 2019. He has continued to be a key player for the Hurricanes, achieving milestones such as playing in his 1,000th NHL game on April 12, 2021. Staal’s leadership and experience have been instrumental in the team’s success, including their playoff runs in recent years.
Notable Works and Milestones
Jordan Staal’s career is highlighted by his Stanley Cup win with the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2009 and his record-setting performances as a rookie. He has consistently been recognized for his defensive skills and contributions to his teams.
Jordan Staal Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Jordan Staal has received several nominations, including for the Calder Memorial Trophy during his rookie season and the Selke Trophy for best defensive forward.
Jordan Staal Awards Won
Jordan Staal has won the Stanley Cup with the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2009, marking a significant achievement in his career.
Jordan Staal Family
Jordan Staal is married to Heather Dysievick, and the couple has three daughters and a son. They faced a tragic loss with the stillbirth of their youngest daughter in February 2018.
Personal Life
Staal is known for his strong Christian faith and has spoken about the importance of faith in his life. He and his brothers established the Staal Family Foundation to support children with cancer and their families. Staal’s family background and personal experiences have shaped his perspective on life and hockey.
