Niko Kapanen

Niko Klaus Petteri Kapanen (born 29 April 1978 in Hattula, Finland) is a professional ice hockey centre currently playing for Ak Bars Kazan of the Kontinental Hockey League.

Playing Career
Kapanen was drafted by the Dallas Stars in the 6th round as the 173rd overall pick in the 1998 NHL Entry Draft. During the 2005–6 season, Kapanen recorded a career high in goals (14), and points (35). He scored his first career hat-trick on February 9, 2006 against the Phoenix Coyotes in a 5–1 victory.

On June 24, 2006, Kapanen was traded to the Atlanta Thrashers, along with 7th round draft pick in 2006, for defenceman Jaroslav Modry and centerman Patrik Stefan. During his first season with the Thrashers, Kapanen was picked up off the waiver list by the Phoenix Coyotes.

On June 9, 2008, Kapanen signed for Russian team Ak Bars Kazan.

Awards

 * 2003 — Played in NHL YoungStars Game

International Play
Played for Finland in:


 * 1997- World Championships
 * 1998- World Championships (Silver Medal)
 * 2000- World Championships (Bronze Medal)
 * 2001- World Championships (Silver Medal)
 * 2002- World Championships
 * 2004- World Championships
 * 2004- World Cup of Hockey (Silver Medal)
 * 2005- World Championships
 * 2006- Winter Olympics (Silver Medal)
 * 2007- World Championships (Silver Medal)
 * 2008- World Championships (Bronze Medal)