Matt Pettinger
Matt Pettinger was born in Edmonton, Alberta, and was drafted in the 2nd round, 43rd overall by the Washington Capitals in the 2000 NHL Entry Draft. Before his professional career, he played a season and half for the University of Denver Pioneers before joining the WHL's Calgary Hitmen. Pettinger headed to Slovenia during the lockout season and played in 8 games for Olimpia Ljubljana, scoring 7 points. He then went back to play for the Capitals and produced good numbers. Pettinger enjoyed his best season to date in 2005-2006, as he returned from Slovenia in the lockout to score 38 points in 71 regular season games, including 20 goals and 18 assists. He would score 32 points the next season in 64 games and became a reliable secondary scoring threat. Pettinger is an energy player who has never achieved much by way of high-end offensive success, but he contributes several intangibles to his team. He gives it all for his team and wears his heart on his sleeve. Pettinger can light the lamp shorthanded, too, using his speed and energy to spring up the ice and create chances.
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