Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Victor Hedman

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 1, 2026

How Victor Hedman built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.

Victor Hedman is a Swedish professional ice hockey defenseman and captain for the Tampa Bay Lightning of the NHL. Drafted second overall by the Lightning in 2009, he immediately began his NHL career that same year. He has been a cornerstone of the Lightning's defense ever since.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

July 2016: Re-signed with Lightning

On July 1, 2016, Victor Hedman re-signed with the Tampa Bay Lightning for an eight-year contract extension, worth $7.875 million per season.

October 2017: Moved Past Brad Richards

On October 12, 2017, Victor Hedman played his 553rd NHL game against the Pittsburgh Penguins, moving him past Brad Richards for fifth-most games played in Lightning history. He also tied Dan Boyle for second-most goals by a Lightning defenseman with his 66th career NHL goal.

December 2018: Recorded 300th NHL Assist

On December 29, 2018, Victor Hedman recorded his 300th career NHL assist on a goal by Nikita Kucherov against the Montreal Canadiens, marking a significant milestone in his career.

January 2019: Most Games Played by a Lightning Defenseman

On January 10, 2019, Victor Hedman played his 663rd game in a Lightning uniform, surpassing Pavel Kubina for the most games played by a defenseman in franchise history, a significant career milestone.

December 2019: Scored 100th Career NHL Goal

On December 5, 2019, Victor Hedman achieved a significant milestone by scoring his 100th career NHL goal in a game against the Minnesota Wild, becoming the first defenseman in Lightning history to reach this mark.

August 2020: Playoff Points Records and Series-Clinching Goal

Throughout August 2020, Victor Hedman achieved multiple playoff milestones, including surpassing Vincent Lecavalier and Steven Stamkos for points in Lightning playoff history. On August 31, 2020, he scored the game-winning and series-clinching goal against the Boston Bruins.