Rickard Rakell Bio
Rickard Lars Gunnar Roland Rakell is a Swedish professional ice hockey right winger for the Pittsburgh Penguins of the National Hockey League (NHL). Rakell has played a significant role in his team’s success, contributing to the Ducks’ multiple playoff appearances and setting franchise records during his tenure with the team. Known for his scoring ability and playmaking skills, he has represented Sweden in international competitions, helping them win gold at the 2018 IIHF World Championship.
Early Life and Background
Rickard Rakell was born on 5 May 1993 in Sollentuna, Sweden, to parents Roland and Annika. He grew up in Stockholm alongside his brother Robin and sister Rebecka. Rakell’s grandfather, Åke Rakell, was a professional table tennis player, and he initially played the sport until he was 14, when he decided to focus on ice hockey. Growing up, Rakell idolized Toronto Maple Leafs forward Mats Sundin and later Patric Hornqvist. His cousin, Mathias, also plays ice hockey and has played for the New York Aviators in the United States Premier Hockey League.
Path to Hockey
Rakell began his hockey career playing for AIK IF in both the J18 Elit and J20 Elit leagues. He initially played in a defensive role until he switched to forward at the age of 14 to increase his scoring opportunities. After recording 25 points in the J18 Allsv and four points in the J20, Rakell was drafted 41st overall by the Plymouth Whalers in the Ontario Hockey League’s (OHL) 2010 Import Draft. He later stated that fellow Swede Gabriel Landeskog influenced his decision to move to North America. Rakell had a strong rookie season with the Whalers, tallying 20 goals and 43 points in 49 games, which helped him secure a spot in the CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game.
Rickard Rakell Career
Early Career (2013–2014)
After being drafted in the first round, 30th overall, by the Anaheim Ducks in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft, Rakell participated in the Ducks’ training camp but was returned to the Whalers to start the 2011–12 season. He had a breakout season, surpassing his previous totals in goals, assists, and points. Rakell made his NHL debut on 19 January 2013, becoming the sixth youngest player to appear in a game for the Ducks. He finished the 2012–13 regular season with 21 goals and 23 assists for 44 points through 40 games. In the 2013–14 season, Rakell began with the Ducks and made his postseason debut, scoring his first career NHL goal during the playoffs.
Breakthrough (2015–2018)
Rakell continued to improve during the 2015–16 season, where he played a significant role in the Ducks’ offense. He finished the regular season with nine goals and 22 assists in 71 games. During the 2016–17 season, he achieved a career-high 33 goals and 51 points through 71 games, becoming the fourth-youngest Duck to score over 30 goals in a season. Rakell’s performance in the 2017 Stanley Cup playoffs was also notable, as he tallied seven goals and 13 points through 15 games. He continued to lead the Ducks during the 2017–18 season, finishing with new career-highs in goals, assists, and points through 77 games.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, Rakell has set numerous personal and franchise records with the Anaheim Ducks, including being the first player in franchise history to score his first career goal in the playoffs. He has also represented Sweden in multiple international competitions, winning gold at the 2018 IIHF World Championship.
Rickard Rakell Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Rickard Rakell has received recognition for his performance on the ice, contributing to his team’s success and earning accolades in various competitions.
Rickard Rakell Awards Won
Rickard Rakell has achieved several milestones during his career, including significant contributions to his team’s playoff appearances and international success with Team Sweden.
Rickard Rakell Family
Rickard Rakell was born to Roland and Annika and grew up in a supportive family environment that encouraged his athletic pursuits.
Personal Life
While playing for the Ducks, Rakell and his then-fiance Emmeli created a charitable program called 67 Assists, aimed at providing opportunities for training service dogs in a live sporting event environment. The couple welcomed their first child during the 2022 offseason.
