Magnus Arvedson

Magnus Arvedson was a strong defensive winger. A Selke Trophy runner-up in just his second season, Arvedson had his best season in 1998-99 playing on the top line with Marian Hossa and Radek Bonk.

Arvedson was never able to fulfill his true potential in the NHL. A big, strong winger, he could had the strength, speed and smarts to handle almost any checking assignment. He also had the ability to contribute offensively, possessing a heavy shot and good vision. But a terrible back injury plagued him over the years, and eventually forced him into retirement by 2004.

Arvedson was definitely a late bloomer. He became a regular in the Swedish Elite League at the age of 23 (1993) and only then caught the attention of NHL scouts. At the age of 25 the Ottawa Senators took a flyer on him, drafting in 119th overall in 1997, thanks to a strong showing at that year's World Championships. Magnus helped Sweden capture the silver medal.

He stepped immediately into the Senators' lineup. He was initially used in a third line checking role but was increasingly moved up to more offensive lines. By his second season he was a regular on the top line, cashing in his best performance - 21 goals, 47 points and a +33 rating. He narrowly missed out on the Selke Trophy to Dallas' Jere Lehtinen.

Injuries would seriously plague Arvedson over the next couple of years. The Senators had the tough decision to let him walk as an unrestricted free agent in 2003. The Vancouver Canucks took a chance on the injury prone forward.

Arvedson provided a strong upgrade on Vancouver's wings. Playing alongside Henrik and Daniel Sedin, Arvedson was on a hot scoring streak when the injury bug appeared again. This time Arvedson blew out his knee, costing him not only the rest of the season, but his career.

Arvedson rehabbed his knee as much as possible, but prior to the 2004-05 season he announced his retirement. In 434 career NHL games he scored 100 goals and 225 points. In addition to the aforementioned 1997 World Championship team, Arvedson also represented his native Sweden at the 2002 Olympic Games.

In retirement he returned to Sweden and took up coaching.