Definition
Calvin Pickard (born September 1, 1992) is an American professional ice hockey goaltender who has played in the National Hockey League (NHL) and other professional leagues.
Overview
Pickard was selected by the Buffalo Sabres in the second round (41st overall) of the 2012 NHL Entry Draft. He made his NHL debut with the Sabres during the 2014–15 season. Over subsequent seasons, Pickard has played for multiple NHL organizations, including the Chicago Blackhawks, Vancouver Canucks, and New York Islanders, as well as their respective minor‑league affiliates in the American Hockey League (AHL). As of the latest verified season, he has also competed in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) and other international professional leagues.
During his career, Pickard has been utilized primarily as a backup goaltender, providing depth to the goaltending position and occasionally starting games due to injuries or performance considerations of primary goaltenders. His statistical record includes a save percentage and goals‑against average that reflect his role as a rotational net‑minder in both the NHL and minor‑league contexts.
Etymology/Origin
The given name “Calvin” derives from the Latin surname Calvinus, meaning “bald” or “hairless.” The surname “Pickard” is of English origin, historically a variant of “Picard,” indicating a person from Picardy, a region in northern France. The combination of these names does not convey a specific meaning beyond their individual linguistic roots.
Characteristics
- Position: Goaltender
- Playing Style: Known for a conventional butterfly style of goaltending, employing rapid down‑low positioning and strong lateral movement.
- Physical Attributes: Stands approximately 6 feet 5 inches (196 cm) tall and weighs around 225 lb (102 kg), giving him a significant net‑covering presence.
- Career Highlights:
- Made NHL debut on March 1, 2015, with the Buffalo Sabres.
- Recorded his first NHL win on March 4, 2015, against the Toronto Maple Leafs.
- Served as a regular starter for the AHL’s Rochester Americans and later for other AHL affiliates.
- Professional Transactions: Has been involved in multiple trades and free‑agent signings, reflecting the journeyman nature of many professional goaltenders not entrenched as franchise starters.
Related Topics
- National Hockey League (NHL)
- Goaltending (ice hockey)
- American Hockey League (AHL)
- Buffalo Sabres
- Chicago Blackhawks
- Vancouver Canucks
- New York Islanders
- Kontinental Hockey League (KHL)
- Ice hockey player development and draft systems