Bryan Bickell

Bryan Bickell was drafted by the Chicago Blackhawks as the 41st overall pick in the second round of the 2004 NHL Entry Draft. This marked the beginning of his professional career in the National Hockey League (NHL) with the Blackhawks, where he eventually gained significant recognition.

Bryan Bickell made his NHL debut with the Chicago Blackhawks on April 5, 2006. He played his first game against the Nashville Predators, marking the start of his career at the highest level of professional hockey. This debut was an important milestone in Bickell's journey as an NHL player.

In 2010, Bryan Bickell was a part of the Chicago Blackhawks team that won the Stanley Cup by defeating the Philadelphia Flyers. This victory was significant as it marked the Blackhawks' first Stanley Cup title since 1961. Bickell's contribution to the team's success in the playoffs was notable, and this championship run solidified his role as a key player.

On June 24, 2013, Bryan Bickell scored a crucial goal for the Chicago Blackhawks in Game 6 of the Stanley Cup Final against the Boston Bruins. His goal tied the game with 1:16 remaining in the third period, which helped propel the Blackhawks to a historic comeback win, securing their second Stanley Cup in four years. Bickell's performance in the 2013 playoffs was pivotal to the team's success.

Bryan Bickell earned his third Stanley Cup title with the Chicago Blackhawks on June 15, 2015. This victory came after the Blackhawks defeated the Tampa Bay Lightning in the Stanley Cup Final. Bickell's role as a power forward was crucial throughout the playoffs, and this championship added another significant achievement to his career with the Blackhawks.

Bryan Bickell was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) in 2016, a serious condition affecting the central nervous system. This diagnosis impacted his NHL career and led to his retirement announcement the following year. The diagnosis marked a major turning point in his life, bringing awareness to MS and inspiring many fellow athletes and fans.

In Bryan Bickell's final NHL game, he participated in a memorable shootout on April 9, 2017. Playing for the Carolina Hurricanes against the Philadelphia Flyers, Bickell scored a goal in the shootout, providing an emotional and fitting conclusion to his professional career. This moment was celebrated by teammates, opponents, and fans alike.

Bryan Bickell announced his retirement from professional hockey on April 9, 2017, after finishing the season with the Carolina Hurricanes. His retirement followed his battle with multiple sclerosis, a condition that challenged him both on and off the ice. Bickell's decision to retire was met with widespread support and admiration from the hockey community and fans for his courage and resilience.

Bryan Bickell and his wife Amanda launched the Bryan & Amanda Bickell Foundation to help abused children and animals and to increase awareness about multiple sclerosis. The foundation's innovative programs connect people in need with service dogs, providing support and raising awareness about important social issues. This initiative highlights Bickell's commitment to giving back to the community.

Bryan Bickell was inducted into the Chicago Sports Hall of Fame on March 10, 2020, honoring his contributions to the sports community, particularly during his tenure with the Chicago Blackhawks. His achievements, including three Stanley Cup wins and his courageous fight against multiple sclerosis, were celebrated at this prestigious event.