Kris Russell

Kris Russell (born May 2, 1987) is a Canadian professional ice hockey defenceman currently playing for the St. Louis Blues of the National Hockey League (NHL). He has a twin brother named Ryan who is a prospect in the Columbus Blue Jackets system and is currently playing for their AHL team, the Springfield Falcons.

Playing career
Russell was drafted in the 3rd round, 67th overall, by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft. After playing an additional two seasons with the Medicine Hat Tigers, Russell made his NHL debut with Columbus during the 2007-08 NHL Season, scoring two goals while appearing in 67 games. Both goals were scored, including his first NHL goal, on January 22, 2008 against Mike Smith of the Dallas Stars He appeared in 66 games the following season and also appeared in all four games of Columbus' first ever playoff appearance against the Detroit Red Wings, who won the series in a sweep. Russell scored a goal during the deciding Game 4.

On November 10th, 2011, Russel was traded to the St. Louis Blues for defenseman Nikita Nikitin.

Awards

 * 2005 - WHL Brad Hornung Trophy
 * 2005 - WHL East Second All-Star Team
 * 2006 - CHL Sportsman of the Year
 * 2006 - WHL Bill Hunter Memorial Trophy
 * 2006 - WHL Brad Hornung Trophy
 * 2006 - WHL East First All-Star Team
 * 2007 - CHL Defenceman of the Year
 * 2007 - WHL Bill Hunter Memorial Trophy
 * 2007 - WHL Four Broncos Memorial Trophy
 * 2007 - WHL East First All-Star Team

International play
Overall, Russell has represented Canada at the following tournaments:
 * 2006 World Junior Ice Hockey Championships
 * 2007 World Junior Ice Hockey Championships
 * 2010 IIHF World Championship