Nick Jensen Bio
Nick Jensen (born September 21, 1990) is an American professional ice hockey defenseman for the Ottawa Senators of the National Hockey League (NHL). Jensen was drafted 150th overall by the Detroit Red Wings in the 2009 NHL entry draft. He has also previously played for the Washington Capitals. Jensen’s career has been marked by steady development and significant contributions to his teams, showcasing his skills as a reliable defenseman in the NHL.
Early Life and Background
Nick Jensen was born on September 21, 1990, in Saint Paul, Minnesota. He grew up in a family with a rich hockey background; his father, Jeff Jensen, played college hockey at Lake Superior State and was drafted by the Colorado Rockies. Additionally, his uncle, Steve Jensen, played for the Minnesota North Stars and Los Angeles Kings and represented Team USA at the 1976 Winter Olympics. This familial connection to hockey likely influenced Jensen’s early interest in the sport. Jensen’s formative years were spent honing his skills in local leagues, setting the stage for his future in professional hockey. Jensen played two seasons with the Rogers Royals in the Minnesota State High School League, where he began to make a name for himself. He then graduated to the Green Bay Gamblers of the United States Hockey League (USHL), where he had an impressive first season, registering five goals and 17 assists in 52 games. His performance helped the Gamblers reach the USHL playoffs, and he continued to excel in his second season, contributing to the team’s championship run.
Path to Hockey
Jensen’s success in the USHL earned him a spot at St. Cloud State University, where he played college hockey with the St. Cloud State Huskies in the NCAA Men’s Division I Western Collegiate Hockey Association (WCHA). In his freshman year, Jensen recorded five goals and 18 assists in 38 games. His sophomore season saw him become the third-leading scorer for the Huskies, with six goals and 26 assists. His junior year was particularly notable; he was named the WCHA’s Defensive Player of the Year and selected to the NCAA West First All-American Team, showcasing his defensive prowess and offensive contributions. Jensen’s impressive college career culminated in a successful transition to professional hockey. He was selected by the Detroit Red Wings in the fifth round of the 2009 NHL Entry Draft. After signing a two-year entry-level contract with the Red Wings in May 2013, he began his professional career with the Grand Rapids Griffins in the American Hockey League (AHL). His time in the AHL was marked by significant achievements, including a strong performance in the Calder Cup playoffs.
Nick Jensen Career
Early Career (2013–2019)
Jensen made his professional debut with the Grand Rapids Griffins during the 2013–14 season, where he played 45 games and registered nine assists. He continued to develop his skills and made a significant impact during the 2014–15 season, recording six goals and 21 assists in 75 games. His strong performance earned him a two-year contract extension with the Red Wings in July 2015. Jensen made his NHL debut on December 20, 2016, for the Detroit Red Wings against the Tampa Bay Lightning, where he recorded his first NHL point. He ended his first season with the Red Wings playing in 49 games and scoring four goals and 13 points. Over the next few seasons, Jensen continued to solidify his role as a dependable defenseman for the Red Wings, achieving personal milestones and contributing to the team’s efforts.
Breakthrough (2019–2024)
Jensen’s career took a significant turn when he was traded to the Washington Capitals on February 22, 2019. He was immediately re-signed to a four-year contract extension worth $10 million. Jensen made his Capitals debut shortly after the trade and quickly adapted to his new team. He played in 20 games during the regular season, registering five assists. The 2019–20 season saw Jensen play in 68 games, where he recorded eight points, all assists. He continued to improve his game in the following seasons, setting career highs in goals and points. In the 2022-23 NHL season, Jensen signed a three-year contract extension with the Capitals, further cementing his place in the team. He played in 77 games, tying his career high with five goals and achieving a new career high with 29 points. On July 1, 2024, Jensen was traded to the Ottawa Senators, marking a new chapter in his professional career.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, Nick Jensen has established himself as a reliable defenseman, known for his defensive skills and ability to contribute offensively. He has played a crucial role in his teams’ successes, including his participation in the 2018 IIHF World Championship, where he helped the United States win a bronze medal.
Nick Jensen Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Nick Jensen has received recognition for his contributions on the ice, particularly during his collegiate career, where he was named a WCHA Third Team All-Star and the WCHA’s Defensive Player of the Year.
Nick Jensen Awards Won
While specific awards won during his professional career are not detailed, Jensen’s achievements in college hockey and his consistent performance in the NHL highlight his dedication and skill as a professional athlete.
Nick Jensen Family
Nick Jensen is married to Jenner, who also has a background in sports, having been an All-State basketball player in high school. The couple has three children together, balancing family life with Jensen’s demanding hockey career.
Personal Life
Jensen and his wife, Jenner, both played sports during their high school years, which has fostered a strong bond between them. They are actively involved in their children’s lives, ensuring a supportive environment as Jensen continues to pursue his professional hockey career.
