Jonas Hiller, Swiss ice hockey player

Jonas Hiller, born on February 12, 1982, is a highly respected Swiss former professional ice hockey goaltender whose career spanned top leagues in both Switzerland and North America. Renowned for his athleticism and distinctive butterfly style, Hiller defied expectations by carving out a significant career in the National Hockey League (NHL) after going undrafted, a testament to his perseverance and skill.

The Ascent in Swiss Hockey: HC Davos and EHC Biel

Hiller's foundational years in professional hockey were spent in Switzerland's premier league, the National League (NL). He began his senior career with EHC Biel, where he played from 2000 to 2003, honing his craft and establishing himself as a promising young netminder. His impressive performances led him to HC Davos, one of Switzerland's most storied clubs, where he truly blossomed between 2003 and 2007. During his tenure with HC Davos, Hiller was instrumental in the team's success, backstopping them to two National League championships in 2005 and 2007. He also played a pivotal role in multiple Spengler Cup victories, an prestigious international club tournament held annually in Davos, solidifying his reputation as a big-game goaltender and attracting attention from overseas scouts.

Defying Odds: An Undrafted NHL Journey with the Anaheim Ducks

Despite his undeniable talent and success in Europe, Jonas Hiller was never selected in any NHL Entry Draft, the annual event where NHL teams formally select eligible amateur players. This often makes the path to the NHL significantly harder. However, Hiller's consistent excellence did not go unnoticed, leading to him signing as a free agent with the Anaheim Ducks in 2007. He made his NHL debut in the 2007-08 season and quickly rose through the ranks, eventually becoming the Ducks' starting goaltender. Over his seven seasons with the Anaheim Ducks, from 2007 to 2014, Hiller showcased remarkable resilience and agility, posting strong save percentages and becoming a fan favorite. He played a crucial role in the Ducks' playoff runs, including their deep push in the 2013-14 season where he started every game.

Stint with the Calgary Flames and International Acclaim

In 2014, Hiller transitioned to the Calgary Flames, where he continued to demonstrate his veteran presence and goaltending prowess for two seasons until 2016. With the Flames, he contributed to their surprising playoff appearance in the 2014-15 season, adding another chapter to his NHL story. Beyond his club career, Hiller was a stalwart for the Swiss national ice hockey team. He proudly represented Switzerland in numerous International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) World Championships and was a key player in two Winter Olympic Games, in Vancouver 2010 and Sochi 2014, showcasing his skills on the world's biggest stages and contributing significantly to Switzerland's growing international standing in ice hockey.

Retirement and Legacy

Jonas Hiller concluded his illustrious playing career in April 2017, leaving behind a legacy as one of Switzerland's most successful goaltenders and a remarkable example of an undrafted player who forged an impactful NHL career. His journey serves as an inspiration, highlighting that dedication and talent can overcome the traditional path to professional success.

Frequently Asked Questions about Jonas Hiller

When was Jonas Hiller born?

Jonas Hiller was born on February 12, 1982.

Which NHL teams did Jonas Hiller play for?

Jonas Hiller played for the Anaheim Ducks (2007-2014) and the Calgary Flames (2014-2016) in the National Hockey League.

Did Jonas Hiller get drafted into the NHL?

No, Jonas Hiller went undrafted in the NHL Entry Draft but signed as a free agent with the Anaheim Ducks in 2007, making his journey to the NHL particularly notable.

Which Swiss teams did Jonas Hiller play for?

In the Swiss National League, Jonas Hiller played for EHC Biel (2000-2003) and HC Davos (2003-2007), where he won two NL championships and multiple Spengler Cups.

When did Jonas Hiller retire from professional hockey?

Jonas Hiller announced his retirement from professional ice hockey in April 2017.

What is the significance of the Spengler Cup in Jonas Hiller's career?

The Spengler Cup is an annual international club tournament held in Davos, Switzerland. Jonas Hiller won this prestigious tournament multiple times with HC Davos, enhancing his reputation and international visibility before joining the NHL.