Player of the Week - Jason Spezza

NEED TO KNOW

There are few hockey players that have the skill level that Jason Spezza possesses. His ability to control the puck, see the game unfold and produce points has been on display since his days in junior hockey in the Toronto area. Over the past few seasons, Jason has become more adept at being a dominant player in all areas of the ice, something that has not gone unnoticed around the league. Spezza was a key contributor in 2011-12 in helping the Senators return to the playoffs in the Eastern Conference.

Along with developing a more complete game, Spezza has shown he can be a leader both on and off the ice. He has become a key voice in the Senators dressing room, and also served as a player representative of the NHLPA on the Competition Committee for a time. All of these things, combined with his world-class skill, highlight why Jason Spezza has been, and will continue to be, one of the most dynamic hockey players.

- During the lockout, Jason had been skating with Rapperswil-Jona of the Swiss Elite League, suiting up in 28 games with the club, registering 9 goals and 21 assists

- He joined the ‘Team Canada’ entry for the recent Spengler Cup tournament, hosted by HC Davos, helping Canada to its first tournament victory since 2007

- During the tournament, Spezza was joined by a large group of NHLPA members, including a couple of former Toronto Marlboros in Jason Spezza and Sam Gagner

BIOGRAPHY

 Born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada on June 13, 1983  Drafted in the 1st round, 2nd overall by the Ottawa Senators in the 2001 NHL Entry Draft  Honed his skills in the Ontario Hockey League as teenager, with Mississauga, Brampton, Windsor and Belleville.  Has represented Canada internationally on numerous occasions, including the 2000 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championships where he became just the third 16-year old to play for Canada, following in the footsteps of Wayne Gretzky and Eric Lindros.  Two-time NHL All-Star (2007-08, 2011-12)