Decade of ‘Dogs – Alex Pietrangelo

Another Thursday means another installment in our Decade of ‘Dogs Summer Series, and this week we’re profiling current NHLer Alex Pietrangelo.

Pietrangelo grew up in King City, Ontario and spent his minor days with the Toronto Jr. Canadiens organization of the GTHL. After a strong season of 44 points in 44 games, Pietrangelo was selected 3^rd overall in the 2006 OHL Priority Selection Draft by the Mississauga IceDogs. Pietrangelo experienced a strong rookie season, compiling 7 goals and 52 points over 59 games. His impressive debut did not go unnoticed as he was named to the OHL First All-Rookie Team as well as the CHL All-Rookie Team.

When the Mississauga IceDogs relocated to Niagara after the 2006-2007 season, Pietrangelo followed suit and continued his dominate play in his newfound home. He nearly doubled his career high for goals, putting home a total of 13, and set a career high in points by finishing with 60. Once again, his strong season was recognized when the CHL invited him to their Top Prospects game, and also with the OHL naming him to their Third All-Star Team. To cap off another memorable campaign, Pietrangelo was selected in the 1^st round, 4^th overall by the St. Louis Blues at the 2008 NHL Entry Draft.

Pietrangelo began his eventful 2008-2009 season in St. Louis, but was returned to Niagara after 8 games and upon his arrival he was named as the 2^nd captain in franchise history. After a strong first half of the season, Pietrangelo was selected to represent team Canada at the 2009 World Junior Hockey Championships, helping to lead his country to their 5^th consecutive gold medal at the event. To cap off a busy season, Pietrangelo was loaned to the Peoria Rivermen, St. Louis’ American Hockey League affiliate, for their playoff run after Niagara’s playoff exit.

Since graduating from the Ontario Hockey League and joining St. Louis on a full time basis, Pietrangelo has experienced a strong career filled with accolades. He has accounted for 255 points in 459 games, putting him among the league’s highest defensive scorers over the past 6 seasons. As well, he has gone on to represent Canada a multitude of times since his WJHC debut in 2009. This includes international tournaments such as the 2011 World Championships, where he was named the top defenseman, and the 2014 Winter Olympics, where he was an integral part of Canada’s gold medal win. Pietrangelo still remains as the only former IceDog to ever compete at either event.

Pietrangelo will continue to represent the IceDogs tradition of excellence for years to come after he signed a 7 year, 45.5 million dollar contract at the beginning of the 2013-2014 season. He is a proud alumnus of the Niagara IceDogs and continues to excel in all aspects of his career.