Subban Hits 800 Games Milestone | FEATURE

On Feb. 7, Devils defenseman P.K. Subban played his 800th career NHL game. Subban is one of 23 NHL defensemen to hit the 800 game mark since the 2009-10 season; however, Subban didn't focus on achieving this milestone over the years, just playing the sport he loves.
"I didn't realize until like two games ago that I was that close," Subban shared. "You just play, that's your job, you have fun. You don't really worry about stuff like that but when it comes and you look back, last night I was sitting in my bed and was like 'wow, 800 games … I wish I could remember every single one.'"
"For anybody I think it's difficult. You obviously want to play as many as possible in the league," said Severson on what it takes to hit this milestone. "800 is an amazing accomplishment ... to see the amount of guys that have played 800, 900, a thousand games … it's a great accomplishment."

Following his 800th game in Ottawa against the Senators, Subban and his team celebrated him reaching the milestone. For the veteran defenseman on the youngest team in the NHL, it was impactful sharing that moment with players at the start of their careers.
"It was great, especially on a young team. I always think of myself, still feel like I'm 21 and like I just came into the league," Subban reflected. "With a young team like that to see players who are so grateful and thankful to be a part of that with me was really special."

Subban's career started in Montreal where he played six seasons with the Canadiens before he was traded to the Predators. After three seasons in Nashville, Subban was traded once again, this time to the New Jersey Devils. Throughout the three franchises, the defenseman became known for his hard work off the ice to play at a high level on the ice.
"He's been a great pro throughout his whole career," Ruff said. "Some of his milestones are some that a lot of defensemen will never meet. He's a guy that spends a lot of time preparing himself for games. He takes a lot of pride that he's going to be able to play at a high level and I think there's a lesson there for young guys too."
The list goes on for other milestones and awards Subban has achieved during his career. He was named to the NHL's All-Rookie Team in 2011, the NHL's First All-Star Team in 2013 and 2015, and Subban played three straight NHL All-Star games in 2016, 2017, and 2018. In 2013 Subban won one of the most prestigious NHL awards, the James Norris Memorial Trophy, which goes to the league's best defenseman.
Outside of the NHL, Subban has an extensive background representing his home country of Canada. In 2008 and 2009, Subban won back-to-back Wold Junior Championships, while in 2014, he helped Canada win an Olympic Gold Medal. However, even with these achievements, Subban was most thankful for the opportunity to share with the next generation.
"So many great teammates and to share that with guys who want to play in the league for a long time and have that influence on them is a great feeling. There's nothing better than that."