Kurt Sauer

Kurt Christopher Sauer (born January 16, 1981) is a professional ice hockey defenseman who last played for the Phoenix Coyotes in the National Hockey League. He is the older brother of Michael Sauer, also a defenseman who plays for the New York Rangers.

Playing career
Sauer was drafted 88th overall in the 2000 NHL Entry Draft by the Colorado Avalanche. Sauer remained unsigned and continued to play for his junior team the Spokane Chiefs. In June 2002, Sauer was signed by the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim on the influence of new coach Mike Babcock, who coached Sauer at the Spokane Chiefs.

In Sauer's debut NHL year in 2003, with Anaheim, he made it to the Stanley Cup finals. The following year on February 21, 2004, Sauer was traded to the team that drafted him, the Colorado Avalanche, for Martin Skoula. Sauer spent the next 4½ years with the Avalanche before leaving as a free agent.

On July 1, 2008, Sauer signed a four-year deal with the Phoenix Coyotes worth an average of $1.75 million per year.

Personal life
Kurt and wife Carmen have 4 children; son Kohl (born April 2003), Kasen, Kade and Kruz.

In addition to younger brother, Michael, an older brother, Kent, was a draftee of the Nashville Predators who was forced to retire due to knee problems. His oldest brother Craig played college football at the University of Minnesota and played in the National Football League with the Atlanta Falcons and the Minnesota Vikings until a foot injury forced him into retirement. His father, Curt, played professional baseball in the Minnesota Twins system.

Awards

 * 2001–02 WHL West Fist All-Star Team