Who is Alex Pietrangelo? Alex Pietrangelo is a professional ice hockey player known for his incredible skills on the ice. Born on January 18, 1990, in King City, Ontario, he has made a name for himself as a top defenseman in the NHL. Pietrangelo was drafted fourth overall by the St. Louis Blues in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft. He played a crucial role in leading the Blues to their first-ever Stanley Cup victory in 2019. Currently, he plays for the Vegas Golden Knights, continuing to impress fans with his defensive prowess and leadership. Want to know more about this hockey star? Here are 13 fascinating facts about Alex Pietrangelo that will give you a deeper look into his life and career.
Early Life and Background
Alex Pietrangelo, a name synonymous with hockey excellence, has a fascinating journey that began long before he hit the NHL ice.
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Born on January 18, 1990, in King City, Ontario, Alex Pietrangelo grew up in a family passionate about sports. His father, Joe, played professional soccer in Italy, which influenced Alex's athletic pursuits.
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Alex's cousin, Frank Pietrangelo, was an NHL goaltender. Frank's career inspired Alex to pursue hockey, providing him with a role model within the family.
Junior Hockey Career
Before making his mark in the NHL, Pietrangelo honed his skills in junior hockey leagues, where he quickly became a standout player.
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Alex played for the Niagara IceDogs in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). His impressive performance earned him a spot on the OHL First All-Rookie Team in 2007.
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During the 2008-2009 season, Pietrangelo was traded to the Barrie Colts. His leadership and defensive prowess helped the team reach the playoffs.
NHL Draft and Early Career
Pietrangelo's transition to the NHL was marked by significant milestones and achievements that set the stage for his professional career.
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The St. Louis Blues selected Alex with the fourth overall pick in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft. His high draft position reflected his potential as a future star.
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Alex made his NHL debut on October 10, 2008, against the Nashville Predators. Although he played only eight games that season, it was clear he had the talent to succeed at the highest level.
Rise to Stardom
Pietrangelo's career continued to flourish as he established himself as one of the league's top defensemen.
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In the 2011-2012 season, Alex recorded 51 points, making him one of the top-scoring defensemen in the NHL. His performance earned him a spot on the NHL Second All-Star Team.
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Alex was named an alternate captain for the Blues in 2014. His leadership qualities and on-ice performance made him a natural choice for the role.
Stanley Cup Victory
One of the most significant achievements in Pietrangelo's career came in 2019 when he led the St. Louis Blues to their first Stanley Cup victory.
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As the team captain, Alex played a crucial role in the Blues' historic playoff run. He scored the game-winning goal in Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final against the Boston Bruins.
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Pietrangelo became the first player in Blues history to hoist the Stanley Cup as captain. His leadership and clutch performances were instrumental in the team's success.
Personal Life and Philanthropy
Off the ice, Pietrangelo is known for his dedication to family and charitable endeavors.
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Alex married his longtime girlfriend, Jayne Cox, in 2016. The couple has triplets, born in 2018, adding a new dimension to Alex's life as a father.
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Pietrangelo is actively involved in charitable work. He and his wife established the "Pietrangelo Family Foundation," which supports various causes, including pediatric cancer research and animal welfare.
Recent Career Moves
Pietrangelo's career continues to evolve as he takes on new challenges and opportunities.
- In October 2020, Alex signed a seven-year contract with the Vegas Golden Knights. This move marked a new chapter in his career, bringing his defensive skills and leadership to a new team.
The Final Whistle
Alex Pietrangelo's journey through hockey is nothing short of inspiring. From his early days in King City, Ontario, to becoming a Stanley Cup champion with the St. Louis Blues, his dedication and skill have left a mark on the sport. Not only is he a powerhouse on the ice, but his leadership qualities shine through, making him a respected figure among teammates and fans alike.
His contributions to the Vegas Golden Knights continue to showcase his talent and determination. Off the ice, Pietrangelo's commitment to his family and charitable endeavors highlights his well-rounded character. Whether you're a die-hard hockey fan or just learning about the sport, Pietrangelo's story is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and the impact one individual can have both in and out of the rink.
So, next time you watch a game, keep an eye out for number 7—he's a player worth cheering for.
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