Sam Gagner, born on August 10, 1989, is a distinguished Canadian former professional ice hockey forward who made a significant impact in the National Hockey League (NHL) over a remarkable seventeen-season career. Gagner's journey began when he was drafted by the Edmonton Oilers in the first round, sixth overall, during the 2007 NHL entry draft. He spent the first seven years of his career with the Oilers, establishing himself as a talented player in the league.
Throughout his career, Gagner showcased his skills with several teams, including the Arizona Coyotes, Philadelphia Flyers, Columbus Blue Jackets, and Vancouver Canucks. His versatility and adaptability allowed him to contribute effectively to each franchise. In 2019, he made a return to the Oilers, a team that had been pivotal in his early career.
In 2020, Gagner was traded to the Detroit Red Wings, where he spent three seasons before moving on to the Winnipeg Jets. His tenure with the Jets was followed by another return to Edmonton in 2023, marking a unique chapter in his career as he rejoined the team for a third time.