Mika Zibanejad is a Swedish professional ice hockey centre and alternate captain for the New York Rangers of the National Hockey League (NHL).
Born on April 18, 1993, in Huddinge, Sweden, he stands 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighs around 208-215 pounds.
Zibanejad is known for his size, skill, two-way play, leadership, and offensive production as a top-line centre.
He has a unique multicultural background, with a father from Iran and a mother from Finland, and is fluent in English, Persian, Finnish, and Swedish.
He was drafted sixth overall by the Ottawa Senators in 2011 and has become a cornerstone of the Rangers franchise since being traded there in 2016.
Siblings
Mika has one older maternal half-brother, Monir Kalgoum, who is also a professional ice hockey player.
Monir played in several lower-tier European leagues, including stints with Huddinge IK and AIK IF in Sweden’s HockeyAllsvenskan, as well as Milton Keynes Lightning in the United Kingdom.
Growing up, Monir served as an inspiration for Mika, motivating him to push his own limits in the sport.
Also Read: Seth Jones Siblings: All About Justin and Caleb Jones
Career
Zibanejad began his professional career in Sweden with Djurgårdens IF before making the jump to the NHL.
He debuted with the Ottawa Senators shortly after being drafted and spent five seasons there, developing into a reliable centre.
In July 2016, he was traded to the New York Rangers in exchange for Derick Brassard.
With the Rangers, Zibanejad quickly established himself as a key offensive player and leader, serving as an alternate captain since the 2018-19 season.
Over his career, he has reached multiple personal milestones, including his 1,000th NHL game.
He has consistently produced at a high level, recording seasons with 30+ goals and 70+ points, while excelling in both even-strength and power-play situations.
Zibanejad has represented Sweden internationally and is respected for his work ethic, hockey IQ, and ability to perform in clutch moments.
Off the ice, he is married to Irma Helin, a Swedish footballer and sportscaster, and they have a daughter named Ella.
Accolades
Mika has been selected to the NHL All-Star Game and has won the Steven McDonald Extra Effort Award multiple times with the Rangers, including in the 2025-26 season, recognizing his perseverance and dedication.
He has also been named the Rangers’ Team MVP by the media and the Players’ Player by his teammates in the 2025-26 season.
Zibanejad has recorded impressive career totals, including hundreds of points and a reputation as one of the league’s top centres.
Email your news TIPS to Editor@Kahawatungu.com — this is our only official communication channel
