Guide Note

Johan Holmqvist is a professional hockey player originally from Sweden. He currently is playing with the Dallas Stars in the National Hockey League.

Fast Facts

1. Born: May 24, 1978
2. Birthplace: Tolfta, Sweden
3. Position: Goaltender
4. Nickname: Honken, Lill-Honken

Holmqvist began his career in 1996 playing for the Brynas IF of the Elitserien, or Swedish Elite League. He was then drafted 175th overall in the 1997 NHL Draft by the New York Rangers. He continued to play in Sweden until the 2000–01 season, when he made his NHL debut. Holmqvist played just four NHL games over the next three seasons, spending most of his time with the Rangers' minor league affiliates. Holmqvist was traded to the Minnesota Wild on March 11, 2003 but continued to play in the minors. He helped the Houston Aeros of the American Hockey League win the Calder Cup Championship and was selected for the Jack Butterfield Trophy as the playoff MVP.

Holmqvist returned to the Swedish Elite League during the 2004-05 NHL Lockout, staying in Sweden for an additional season after the lockout ended. On June 1, 2006, he signed as a free agent with the Tampa Bay Lightning, playing 48 regular season games the next season. He was then traded to the Dallas Stars on February 26, 2008 as a backup for veteran goaltender Marty Turco.