Sam Girard's Success and Achievements in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 24, 2026

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Sam Girard. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Samuel Girard is a Canadian professional ice hockey defenceman currently playing for the Colorado Avalanche in the NHL. Drafted 47th overall by the Nashville Predators in 2016, he was later traded to the Avalanche in 2017. Girard is known for his agility and puck-moving skills on the ice. A significant achievement in his career includes winning the Stanley Cup with the Colorado Avalanche in 2022.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

1989: First Player Since Jean Imbeau

In 2014, Sam Girard became the first player from Jonquière Elites to be drafted that high since Jean Imbeau was drafted in 1989.

1993: Multiple Defensemen Under 22

Since the 1993-94 season, the Avalanche are the first team with multiple defensemen under the age of 22 who have at least 30 points.

2013: All-Star Team and Top Defenceman Honours

After the 2013-14 season, Sam Girard earned QMAAA First All-Star Team and Top Defenceman honours, highlighting his achievements in the Quebec Major AAA Hockey League.

November 15, 2014: First Career QMJHL Goal

On November 15, 2014, Sam Girard recorded his first career QMJHL goal in overtime to beat the Rouyn-Noranda 5–4, marking a significant achievement in his junior hockey career.

November 2, 2015: Third Star of the Week

On November 2, 2015, Sam Girard was named the Third Star of the Week after recording a goal and five assists in three games, showcasing his scoring success.

2015: Hlinka Gretzky Cup Gold Medal

In 2015, Sam Girard competed with Canada men's national junior ice hockey team at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup and won a gold medal.

2016: Ranked 38th Overall

Leading up to the 2016 NHL Entry Draft, Sam Girard was ranked 38th overall for North American skaters by the NHL Central Scouting Bureau, indicating his potential as a prospect.

April 14, 2017: First Career AHL Goal

On April 14, 2017, Sam Girard recorded his first career AHL goal in a 6–2 win over the Rockford IceHogs while playing for the Milwaukee Admirals.

October 10, 2017: NHL Debut

On October 10, 2017, Sam Girard made his NHL debut during the Predators' 2017–18 season home opener against the Philadelphia Flyers. He also recorded his first point with an assist.

October 12, 2017: First NHL Goal

On October 12, 2017, Sam Girard scored his first NHL goal in just his second game against the Dallas Stars. He also recorded an assist.

2018: Played All 82 Games

During the 2018–19 season, Sam Girard played in all 82 games and tied for second amongst Avalanche defensemen in points with 27, showcasing his consistency and contribution to the team.

2019: Improved On-Ice Success

In 2019, Sam Girard recorded career-high numbers in his first three seasons with the Colorado Avalanche, showing his improved on-ice success.

2019: Recognition Window and Honorary President

In 2019, the Benoît-Lévesque Sports Centre created a recognition window about Sam Girard's journey to the NHL. He was also invited to sit as honorary presidents of the cadet and juvenile division 1 School Hockey Championship.