By this point, all of the Golden Knights Nation know about Deryk Engelland’s Las Vegas roots. His wife is a Southern Nevada native and from 2003-2005, Engelland was a gritty, physical defenseman for the Las Vegas Wranglers. But most importantly, Engelland’s simple, yet emotional statement on October 10th united himself and his teammates with the city of Las Vegas.
“Like all of you, I’m proud to call Las Vegas home… I met my wife here. Our kids were born here. I know how special this city is. To all the brave first responders that have worked tirelessly and courageously through this whole tragedy, we thank you. To the families and friends of the victims, we’ll do everything we can to help you and our city heal. We are Vegas Strong.” – Deryk Engelland on October 10, 2017
Engelland has been an incredible asset, not only to his team, but to the Las Vegas community. Along with his wife, Melissa, Engelland helped develop the Vegas Strong Hero of the Game program following the tragedy on October 1st. Engelland used his own funds to purchase home game tickets for victims, their families, and the first responders who could not afford to go. In addition, Engelland is involved in the Las Vegas community through multiple non-profit organizations such as Ronald McDonald House, Three Square, and local firefighters’ charity events.
What We Know About Engelland
- Selected #194th in 2000 NHL Draft
- Played 107 games with Las Vegas Wranglers
- Right-handed
- VGK Stats: Third in Average Time On Ice (20:17), Second in Blocks (150)
- VGK Stats: Career Highs in Assists (18), Points (23), Shots (108), Penalty Minutes (12), Time On Ice (20:17), Blocks (150), Hits (48), Takeaways (25)
- VGK Alternate Captain
- Won 2018 Mark Messier Leadership Award
“The good thing about Deryk is, he knows his game really well. He’s a simple defenseman with the puck. Makes the first pass. Makes the good, hard plays. He’s a tough customer, tough to play against in the defensive zone, but also an intimidating guy with the brand of hockey he can play.” – Former Penguins coach Dan Bylsma in 2009
Engelland credits the Penguins for helping him find his style of play, making modifications to be a much more physical defender. Engelland’s tough reputation earned him a three-year deal with the Flames in 2014. It was in Calgary where the defenseman learned how to become a leader on and off the ice.
What We May Not Know About Engelland
- Born April 3, 1982 in Edmonton, Alberta
- 2006 Calder Cup Champion with Hershey Bears
- Wrote article in Players Tribune after October 1st tragedy
- NHL Fight Record (30-10-21)
- Fought and won vs. Evander Kane in 2009
- Draw vs. Ryan Reaves in 2012
- Fought and lost vs. Ryan Reaves in 2015
“He’s been terrific. He’s a veteran guy who knows how to play, and he’s been one of our leaders in the locker room.” – Gerard Gallant, VGK Head coach
Since his arrival, Engelland has become the quintessential team player. Being a franchise ambassador, assisting teammates when settling in, or getting ready for the hockey season, the 36-year-old managed to do it all. Oh, and have one heck of a season. Not many 36-year-old veteran defenseman have career seasons, take on leadership roles, and become a fan favorite in just one year, which is why you see so many #5 Golden Knights fan jerseys around Las Vegas.
Last season, Attorney Adam Kutner gave away tickets to the Vegas Golden Knights home games, along with Zamboni rides during the intermissions. As an avid hockey fan, Adam Kutner looks to keep the VGK spirit alive by providing weekly news updates about the team’s offseason. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news on our beloved Golden Knights.
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