Sami Salo

Finnish-born professional hockey player Sami Salo plays defense for the Vancouver Canucks in the National Hockey League. Salo has one of the hardest slap shots in the league; during a 2006 Canucks' skills competition, a shot from Salo registered at 100 miles per hour.

Salo was sidelined for three game in December of 2008 with a groin injury. He returned to the Canucks for a December 17, 2008, game in which he broke a rib. Salo was placed on injured reserve two days later and is expected to miss four weeks.ESPN.com: Vancouver Canucks D Sami Salo Out Four Weeks with Broken Rib

Drafted by the Ottawa Senators during the sixth round of the 1996 NHL entry draft, Sami Salo made his NHL debut in 1998-1999 season. He scored 19 points playing 61 games during his rookie season, and was named to the NHL's All-Rookie team. During his next three seasons with the Senators, Salo was plagued by a series of injuries which prevented him from playing in over half the games.

During the 2002 off-season, Salo was traded to the Vancouver Canucks, where he recorded a career high of 30 points during his first season with the team. Since joining, Salo has proved himself to be a vital member of the Vancouver defense, although continuing injuries have prevented him from ever playing a full season since his first with the team. In March of 2007, Salo signed a four-year contract extension with the Canucks.

• Mahalo's Guide to the Vancouver Canucks
  • Internet Hockey Database: Career Stats
  • Height: 6-3
  • Weight: 215
  • Rookie Year: 1998-1999