Brandon Saad is an American professional ice hockey player who serves as a winger for the Vegas Golden Knights in the National Hockey League (NHL).
Born on October 27, 1992, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to a Syrian father, George Sr., and an American mother, Sandy, Saad grew up in Gibsonia, Pennsylvania.
He developed his passion for hockey in local rinks and neighborhood settings, eventually rising through junior ranks to become a two-time Stanley Cup champion.
Standing at 6 feet 1 inch and weighing around 202 pounds, Saad is known for his speed, scoring touch, and two-way play as a left-shot winger.
Siblings
Brandon has one older brother named George, who played a pivotal role in his hockey development and personal growth.
The brothers grew up playing hockey together in Pennsylvania, sharing the ice on the same developmental teams and even at Pine-Richland High School.
George, who later attended Pennsylvania State University, provided constant support and competition that helped propel Brandon forward in the sport.
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Career
Saad’s hockey career began in earnest with the Pittsburgh Hornets youth program, where he excelled in elite leagues.
He played high school hockey alongside his brother before moving to the North American Hockey League (NAHL) with the Mahoning Valley Phantoms, earning Rookie of the Year honors.
He spent time with the U.S. National Team Development Program and then joined the Saginaw Spirit of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), where he put up impressive numbers, including leading the league in points per game during one season and winning the William Hanley Trophy as the most sportsmanlike player.
Drafted 43rd overall by the Chicago Blackhawks in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft, Saad made an immediate impact.
He debuted in the NHL during the 2011-12 season and became a regular contributor during the lockout-shortened 2012-13 campaign.
Over his career, he has played for several teams, including two stints with the Blackhawks, the Columbus Blue Jackets, Colorado Avalanche, St. Louis Blues, and now the Vegas Golden Knights.
Accolades
Saad is a two-time Stanley Cup champion with the Chicago Blackhawks in 2013 and 2015, playing key roles in both playoff runs as a young player.
In his rookie season, he was named to the NHL All-Rookie Team and finished as a finalist for the Calder Memorial Trophy.
Saad was selected to play in the 2016 NHL All-Star Game during his time with the Columbus Blue Jackets.
At the junior level, he won gold with the United States at the 2010 World U18 Championships and earned all-star honors in other international youth events.
In the OHL, he received First All-Star Team honors and the William Hanley Trophy.
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