Jaccob Scott Slavin is a distinguished American professional ice hockey defenseman and alternate captain for the Carolina Hurricanes in the National Hockey League (NHL). Slavin’s journey began when he was drafted by the Hurricanes in the fourth round of the 2012 NHL Entry Draft, marking the start of a promising career. He initially committed to Colorado College, where he showcased his exceptional talent by earning the NCHC Rookie of the Year award and securing spots on both the All-Rookie Team and the All-Conference Second Team during his freshman year.
Transitioning to professional hockey, Slavin made his debut with the Charlotte Checkers in the American Hockey League (AHL) during the 2015-16 season. His impressive performance, including 7 assists in his first 14 games, led to his recall by the Hurricanes, where he made his NHL debut on November 20, 2015. Slavin’s offensive prowess was highlighted when he scored his first NHL hat-trick against the New York Islanders in March 2017, further establishing his reputation as a key player for the team.
In July 2017, Slavin signed a lucrative seven-year contract with the Hurricanes, reflecting the team’s confidence in his abilities. His contributions on the ice were recognized when he won the Lady Byng Memorial Trophy for the 2020-21 season, awarded to the league’s most gentlemanly player. He achieved this remarkable feat again in the 2023-24 season, becoming only the second defenseman in history to win the trophy multiple times.
Continuing to excel, Slavin signed an eight-year contract extension in July 2024, solidifying his long-term commitment to the Hurricanes. His leadership and skill have made him an invaluable asset to the team, and his dedication to the sport and community continues to inspire fans and aspiring athletes alike.