Teemu Selänne

Teemu Ilmari Selänne (born July 3, 1970 in Helsinki, Finland), is a professional ice hockey right winger. He is the NHL record holder for most goals scored in a rookie season with 76 and most points scored with 132. While he holds outright the record for goals scored in a rookie season, his rookie season point total of 132 is actually second to Wayne Gretzky's "first year" record of 137. As the NHL did not grant "rookie" status to players who came to the NHL after previously playing in the WHA, the "rookie" record is officially held by Selanne while the "first year" player record is credited to Gretzky.

Related Topics:
July 3 - 1970 - Helsinki - Finland - Ice hockey - NHL - WHA

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He and his twin brother, Paavo, were born in Helsinki, Finland. A former kindergarten teacher, Teemu played for Jokerit in the Finnish SM-liiga from 1988 to 1992. He was selected by the Winnipeg Jets 10th overall in the 1988 NHL Entry Draft. He scored 76 goals in his rookie season, an all-time record. Following his rookie season, Winnipeg Jets prospects Keith Tkachuk and Alexei Zhamnov began to come into their own as star players and the young trio would begin to form a formidable line that at any time could score, play strong defense, or engage in physical play. As all three were Olympians, the line became known as "the Olympic line." With the help of Selanne and his new linemates, the Winnipeg Jets became a threat for Stanley Cup contention, however Selanne suffered a major leg injury in his second season. On February 7, 1995, he was traded to the Anaheim Mighty Ducks. Selänne teamed up with Paul Kariya to form one of the most potent scoring duos in the NHL. On March 5, 2001, Selänne was again traded, this time to the San Jose Sharks.

Related Topics:
Jokerit - Finnish - SM-liiga - Winnipeg Jets - 1988 NHL Entry Draft - Keith Tkachuk - Alexei Zhamnov - February 7 - 1995 - Anaheim Mighty Ducks - Paul Kariya - March 5 - 2001 - San Jose Sharks

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Known for his explosive speed, Selänne also has great hands and a remarkable ability to put the puck in the net. He's also a fan favourite as he has a bright, friendly personality.

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After a disappointing season in San Jose, Selänne signed with the Colorado Avalanche as a free agent on July 3, 2003 where he was again joined by Kariya. Their reunion was a disappointment as Selänne was not allowed to play alongside Kariya but was relegated to defensive duties. After another mediocre season (2003-04) in Colorado, Teemu underwent knee surgery during the NHL lockout and signed up to play with Jokerit again. He was unable to play any games, however, because rehabbing his knee took longer than expected. Selänne rejoined the Mighty Ducks signing a one year contract on August 22, 2005.

Related Topics:
Colorado Avalanche - Free agent - July 3 - 2003 - 2003-04 - NHL lockout - Jokerit - August 22 - 2005

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Teemu is a co-owner of HC Salamat, a team playing in the Finnish Mestis league.

Related Topics:
HC Salamat - Mestis

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Selänne married Sirpa Vuorinen on July 19, 1996; they have 3 sons: Eemil, Eetu, and Leevi.

Related Topics:
July 19 - 1996

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