Career Timeline of Connor Clifton: Major Achievements and Milestones

Discover the career path of Connor Clifton, from the first major opportunity to industry-changing achievements.

Connor Clifton is an American professional ice hockey defenseman currently playing for the Buffalo Sabres in the NHL. Prior to his professional career, Clifton played college hockey at Quinnipiac University. He is known for his physical style of play.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements

2013: Began Freshman Season at Quinnipiac University

In 2013, Connor Clifton began his freshman season at Quinnipiac University.

2013: Drafted by the Phoenix Coyotes

In 2013, Connor Clifton was drafted by the Phoenix Coyotes in the fifth round, 133rd overall, of the NHL entry draft. He also won silver in the 2013 IIHF World Under-18 Championship.

2017: Signed with Providence Bruins

In 2017, after failing to reach an agreement with the Arizona Coyotes, Connor Clifton signed with the Providence Bruins of the American Hockey League (AHL).

May 3, 2018: Signed with Boston Bruins

On May 3, 2018, Connor Clifton was signed to a two-year entry-level NHL contract by the Boston Bruins.

November 16, 2018: NHL Debut

On November 16, 2018, Connor Clifton made his NHL debut against the Dallas Stars after being recalled on an emergency basis.

March 23, 2019: First NHL Point

On March 23, 2019, Connor Clifton registered his first NHL point with an assist on a Noel Acciari's goal, in a 7–3 win over the Florida Panthers.

July 1, 2019: Signed Contract Extension with Bruins

On July 1, 2019, Connor Clifton signed a three-year, $3 million contract extension to remain with the Bruins.

2019: Secured spot on opening night roster for Bruins

In 2019, Connor Clifton secured a spot on the opening night roster for the Bruins to start the 2019–20 season. Clifton was a regular fixture on the third defense pairing for the Bruins until the season was suddenly postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, registering two goals in 33 games. He would play in eight postseason games for the Bruins, scoring a goal and two assists before the Bruins were eliminated in the second round by the eventual Stanley Cup champion Tampa Bay Lightning.

2020: Played 44 Games for Bruins

In 2020, Connor Clifton played in 44 games for the Bruins in the shortened 2020–21 season, scoring a goal and six assists for seven points.

2022: Established Himself as Good Offensive Weapon

In 2022 during the 2022-23 season, Connor Clifton established himself as a good offensive weapon, scoring five goals and 18 assists, both career highs, to help the Bruins to a record-breaking season.

July 1, 2023: Signed with Buffalo Sabres

On July 1, 2023, Connor Clifton left the Bruins as a free agent and was signed to a three-year, $9.99 million contract with the Buffalo Sabres.

June 28, 2025: Traded to Pittsburgh Penguins

On June 28, 2025 Connor Clifton, and the 39th pick in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft, was traded to the Pittsburgh Penguins for Conor Timmins and Issac Belliveau.