Sheldon Souray at a Glance
Sheldon Souray Net Worth: A Look at the Career and Earnings of the NHL Defenseman
Sheldon Souray is a name that resonates with hockey fans for his powerful shot and imposing presence on the blue line. This article delves into Sheldon Souray’s net worth, salary, and career, offering an in-depth look at his journey from a junior player to an NHL All-Star.
Early Career and Junior Hockey
Sheldon Souray’s hockey journey began in Elk Point, Alberta, where he was born in July 1976. His path to the NHL started in the Western Hockey League (WHL), where he honed his skills playing for the Tri-City Americans. He later played for the Prince George Cougars and the Kelowna Rockets, showcasing his potential as a defenseman. Before making his mark in the NHL, Souray gained valuable experience in the American Hockey League (AHL) with the Albany River Rats. These formative years set the stage for his professional career.
NHL Career Highlights and Achievements
Sheldon Souray was drafted by the New Jersey Devils as the #71 pick in the 1994 NHL Draft. He made his NHL debut with the Devils in 1997 and later played for the Montreal Canadiens from 1999 to 2007. Souray also had stints with the Dallas Stars and Anaheim Ducks, leaving his mark on multiple teams. He was known for his exceptional slap shot, unofficially setting an NHL record for the hardest shot, and his offensive contributions. He was selected to play in the NHL All-Star Game three times, in 2004, 2007, and 2009, a testament to his skill and popularity. His achievements include:
- Played for the New Jersey Devils, Montreal Canadiens, Dallas Stars, and Anaheim Ducks.
- NHL All-Star Game appearances in 2004, 2007, and 2009.
- Represented Canada in international competitions, winning a Silver medal at the 2005 World Championships.
- Holds an NHL record for the most single-season power-play goals by a defenseman with 19.
Salary, Contracts, and Financial Success
Sheldon Souray’s financial success is reflected in his NHL contracts. In 2007, he signed a lucrative five-year deal with the Edmonton Oilers worth $27 million, demonstrating his value as a top defenseman. In 2012, he secured a three-year contract with the Anaheim Ducks, valued at $11 million. These contracts significantly contributed to his net worth, estimated at $11 million, showcasing his ability to secure substantial earnings throughout his career.
Personal Life and Relationships
Beyond the hockey rink, Sheldon Souray’s personal life has also garnered attention. He was married to Baywatch actress Angelica Bridges from 2002 to 2007, and they have two daughters together. In February 2016, he married former WWE wrestler Kelly Kelly, but they divorced a year later. These relationships have added another dimension to his public persona.
Legacy and Retirement
Sheldon Souray retired from professional hockey, leaving a legacy of a hard-hitting defenseman with a powerful shot and a knack for scoring. His record-breaking slap shot and impressive power-play goal stats are part of his lasting impact. While his career had its ups and downs, Souray will be remembered for his contributions to the game and his financial success. His journey offers an interesting study of a hockey player’s professional and personal life.
Career Earnings
Source / Title | Amount |
---|---|
Anaheim Ducks (2014-15) | $3.5 Million |
Anaheim Ducks (2013-14) | $3.5 Million |
Anaheim Ducks (2012-13) | $2.3 Million |
Edmonton Oilers (2012-13) | $1.5 Million |
Edmonton Oilers (2011-12) | $1.5 Million |
Dallas Stars (2011-12) | $1.7 Million |
Edmonton Oilers (2010-11) | $4.5 Million |
Edmonton Oilers (2009-10) | $5.5 Million |
Edmonton Oilers (2008-09) | $6.3 Million |
Edmonton Oilers (2007-08) | $6.3 Million |
Total Earnings | $36.5 Million |