Rasmus Sandin Bio
Carl Erik Rasmus Sandin is a Swedish professional ice hockey defenceman for the Washington Capitals of the National Hockey League (NHL). He was selected in the first round, 29th overall by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the 2018 NHL entry draft. Before joining the NHL, Sandin played five games for Rögle BK of the Swedish Hockey League (SHL).
Early Life and Background
Rasmus Sandin was born on 7 March 2000, in Uppsala, Sweden, to Helena and Patric Sandin. He grew up alongside his older brother Linus, who also plays professional hockey. Sandin chose to study English in school, opting for it over Spanish and German, which reflects his early commitment to his craft.
Path to Hockey
At the age of 15, Sandin signed with the Modo Hockey organization and spent the 2016–17 season with Brynäs IF in the J20 Nationell. After an impressive performance, he was drafted by the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds of the Canadian Hockey League (CHL) in the first round of the CHL Import Draft. However, he decided to return to Sweden to start his professional career with Rögle BK of the Swedish Hockey League. Sandin recorded one assist in his first five games before joining the Greyhounds for the 2017–18 season, where he quickly established himself as a top defenseman.
Rasmus Sandin Career
Early Career (2017–2018)
Rasmus Sandin began his professional career in 2017 with Rögle BK before joining the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds. He made his Greyhounds debut on 28 October 2017 and helped the team set a franchise record with 23 consecutive wins. Sandin finished the regular season leading all rookie defensemen with 12 goals and 33 assists for 45 points, earning the team’s Rookie of the Year award and a spot on the OHL All-Rookie First Team.
Breakthrough (2018–2023)
After being drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2018, Sandin attended their training camp and was assigned to their American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Toronto Marlies. He made his NHL debut on 2 October 2019 against the Ottawa Senators, becoming the first 19-year-old defenseman to play for the Maple Leafs since Morgan Rielly in 2013. Throughout his time with the Maple Leafs, Sandin showcased his skills, recording significant points and contributing to the team’s playoff runs.
Notable Works and Milestones
Sandin’s signature moment came when he was traded to the Washington Capitals on 28 February 2023. In his debut with the Capitals, he became the first defenseman in franchise history to score three points. He finished the 2022–23 season with a career-high seven goals and 28 assists through 71 games.
Rasmus Sandin Award Nominations
Rasmus Sandin has received recognition for his performances, particularly during his junior career, where he was a finalist for the Emms Family Award and was named to the OHL All-Rookie First Team.
Rasmus Sandin Awards Won
Throughout his career, Sandin has been honored with several awards, including the Rookie of the Year award from the Greyhounds and recognition as OHL Rookie of the Month during his time in junior hockey.
Rasmus Sandin Family
Rasmus Sandin was born to Helena and Patric Sandin. He has an older brother, Linus Sandin, who also plays professional hockey.
Personal Life
In 2023, Rasmus Sandin became an ambassador for the Börje Salming ALS Foundation, reflecting his commitment to giving back to the community. He continues to reside in the United States while playing for the Washington Capitals.
