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Patrick Sharp
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Patrick Sharp (born December 27, 1981) is a Canadian former professional ice hockey player who played 15 seasons in the National Hockey League (NHL) for the Philadelphia Flyers, Chicago Blackhawks, and Dallas Stars. After his retirement as a player, Sharp worked as an analyst for NBC Sports and as a color commentary for Blackhawks broadcasts on NBC Sports Chicago. He joined the Flyers in 2023 as a special adviser to hockey operations. Sharp was also a member of the University of Vermont coaching staff in 2021.
Key Information
Sharp played collegiate hockey at the University of Vermont before he was drafted by the Flyers in 2001. He began his NHL career with the Flyers organization, but was traded to the Blackhawks in 2005. He became a three-time Stanley Cup champion with the Blackhawks in 2010, 2013 and 2015. He was later traded to the Stars in 2015, where he spent two seasons before returning to the Blackhawks in 2017. Sharp also represented the Canada at the 2014 Winter Games, where he won an Olympic gold medal.
Playing career
[edit]Junior and college
[edit]Sharp began his Junior career at age 16 playing for the Kanata Valley Lasers of the CJHL with his older brother then the next year they both played in Thunder Bay, Ontario, playing for the Thunder Bay Kings program[1] then for the former Thunder Bay Flyers of the United States Hockey League (USHL). From there, he continued his hockey career in the college ranks with the University of Vermont, before the Philadelphia Flyers selected him in the third round, 95th overall, of the 2001 NHL entry draft.
Professional
[edit]Philadelphia Flyers
[edit]_(cropped2).jpg)
After completing two years with Vermont, Sharp signed a three-year entry-level contract with the Flyers on May 21, 2002.[2] He made his NHL debut in 2002–03, playing in three games with the Flyers but spending most of the season with their American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Philadelphia Phantoms, recording 33 points (14 goals, 19 assists) in 53 games.
In 2003–04, he split the season between the Flyers and Phantoms, recording seven points (five goals, two assists) in 41 games with the Flyers, and 29 points (15 goals, 14 assists) in 35 games for the Phantoms.
Due to the 2004–05 NHL lockout, Sharp spent the entire following season in the AHL with the Phantoms, registering 23 goals and 29 assists (52 points) in 75 regular-season games and eight goals and 13 assists (21 points) in 21 playoff games en route to a Calder Cup championship.
Chicago Blackhawks
[edit]Midway through the 2005–06 season, on December 5, 2005, Sharp was traded by the Flyers (along with Éric Meloche) to the Chicago Blackhawks in exchange for Matt Ellison and a third-round pick in the 2006 NHL entry draft.[3] He finished the season with a combined 31 points between the two teams.
Sharp emerged with the Blackhawks in 2007–08, recording career-highs of 36 goals, 26 assists and 62 points in 80 games. He led the Blackhawks in power play goals (nine), shorthanded goals (seven) and game-winning goals (seven). Near the half-way mark for the season, on January 17, 2008, Sharp signed a new, four-year contract with the Blackhawks lasting through to the end of the 2011–12 season.
At the start of the 2008–09 season, on October 8, 2008, Sharp was named an alternate captain for the Blackhawks, along with Duncan Keith.[4] Despite being limited by injuries, Sharp helped the Blackhawks form a highly offensive and young core led by second-year forwards Patrick Kane, captain Jonathan Toews and newly acquired veteran defenceman Brian Campbell. He finished the season with 44 points (26 goals, 18 assists) in 61 games as the Blackhawks qualified for the playoffs for the first time since 2002. He added 11 points in the 2009 playoffs as the Blackhawks made a surprisingly deep playoff run by defeating the Calgary Flames in six games and Vancouver Canucks in six games in the first two round before they were eliminated in the Western Conference Finals in five games by the defending Stanley Cup champion Detroit Red Wings.
Sharp played all 82 games for the Blackhawks in the 2009–10 season with 25 goals and 41 assists for 66 points recorded. On June 9, 2010, Sharp won the Stanley Cup with Chicago over the Philadelphia Flyers, his former team. He contributed 11 goals and 11 assists for 22 points in all 22 games during Chicago's 2010 playoff run.
On January 30, 2011, Sharp was named the Most Valuable Player in the 2011 NHL All-Star Game, earning one goal and two assists in the game. On March 20, in a 2–1 win over the Phoenix Coyotes, Sharp collided with Coyotes' defenseman Rostislav Klesla, resulting in him missing the next seven games.[5] Sharp ended the 2010–11 campaign playing in 74 games with a team leading 34 goals along with 37 assists for 71 points recorded. He also had five points (three goals and two assists) in all seven playoff games in the Blackhawks first round exit in the 2011 playoffs to the Presidents' Trophy-winning Vancouver Canucks.
On August 3, 2011, he signed a new five-year contract with Chicago worth $29.5 million, which came into effect for the 2012–13 season and carried an annual salary cap hit of $5.9 million.[6] On September 12, Sharp underwent an emergency appendectomy after experiencing abdominal discomfort. Team physician Dr. Michael Terry anticipated that Sharp would have a full recovery in about three-to-four weeks.[7] On November 25, in a 6–5 win against the Anaheim Ducks, Sharp scored his second career NHL hat-trick.[8] Jonathan Toews, who himself had a career-high five-point game, recorded the primary assists on all three of Sharp's goals.[9][10] Sharp would finish the season with 33 goals and 36 assists for 69 points in 74 games. His 33 goals led the Blackhawks in goals for the second consecutive season. He scored one goal in all six games during the Blackhawks' first round exit to the Phoenix Coyotes in six games in the 2012 playoffs.
During the 2012–13 NHL lockout, Sharp remained in Chicago, while many of his teammates started playing for the European leagues or with the Rockford IceHogs, the American Hockey League affiliate to the Blackhawks until the end in January 2013. He spent time with his then nine-month-old daughter, and was involved in Gillette's "My City is My Gym" fitness program as a spokesperson.[11][12] On March 6, 2013, in a 3–2 win over the Colorado Avalanche, Sharp sustained a separated shoulder as a result from a hit by Avalanche defenseman Ryan O'Byrne, resulting in Sharp missing the next 14 games.[13] He ended the 48 game-shortened season, Sharp played 28 games, recording six goals and 14 assists for 20 points and a plus-minus rating of +8. After the Blackhawks won the Presidents' Trophy as the regular season champions, they would go on to win their second Stanley Cup in four seasons as they defeated the Minnesota Wild in five games, the Detroit Red Wings in seven games in round 2 (erasing a 3–1 series deficit in doing so) and the defending Stanley Cup champion Los Angeles Kings in five games in the first three rounds before defeating the Boston Bruins in six games in the 2013 Stanley Cup Finals. During the 2013 playoffs, Sharp played in all 23 games and led the Blackhawks in goals (10) followed up with six assists and 16 points.[14]
On December 27, 2013, his 32nd birthday, in a 7–2 win against the Colorado Avalanche, Sharp scored his third career NHL hat-trick.[15] Four games after, in a 5–3 win against the New Jersey Devils on January 3, 2014, he scored his fourth NHL hat-trick.[16] On January 7, 2014, he was named to the Canadian Olympic team for the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi.[17] He would end the 2013–14 season with a team-leading 34 goals along with 44 assists for a career high and team-leading 78 points in all 82 games. Sharp and the defending Stanley Cup Champion Blackhawks would go on another deep playoff run in the 2014 playoffs by defeating the St. Louis Blues in the first round in six games and the Minnesota Wild in six games in the second round before going up against the Los Angeles Kings in the Western Conference Finals for a second consecutive year and this time losing in seven games to the eventual Stanley Cup champion Kings. He ended the playoffs with five goals and assists for 10 points and played in all 19 games.
On 4 November 2014, in a 5–0 win over the Montreal Canadiens, Sharp took a hit from Canadiens’ defenseman Alexei Emelin, that resulted in both of their legs getting tangled up and a leg injury Sharp, causing him to miss the next 14 games.[18] After playing in 68 games with 16 goals and 27 assists for 43 points in the 2014–15 season, he would win his third Stanley Cup championship with the Blackhawks as they defeated the Nashville Predators in the first round in six games, the Minnesota Wild for the second straight season and a third consecutive playoff matchup, this time defeating them in a sweep, the top-seeded Anaheim Ducks in seven games (erasing a 3–2 series deficit in the process) along with the Tampa Bay Lightning in six games in the 2015 Stanley Cup Finals. He scored five goals with 10 assists for 15 points in all 23 games during the 2015 playoffs.[19]
Dallas Stars
[edit]On July 10, 2015, due to salary cap issues, Sharp and Blackhawks defensive prospect Stephen Johns were traded to the Dallas Stars in exchange for defenceman Trevor Daley and forward Ryan Garbutt.[20] On December 22, 2015, in the first matchup against his former Blackhawks, he tallied a two-point performance, adding a goal and an assist in a 4–0 victory. He played in 76 games in the 2015–16 season, recording 20 goals and 35 assists for 55 points as the Stars finished as the top seed in the Western Conference and were the Presidents' Trophy runner-up, 11 points behind the Eastern Conference’s Washington Capitals for the award. In the 2016 playoffs, Sharp and the Stars would defeat the Minnesota Wild in six games in the first round before falling in seven games to the St. Louis Blues in the second round.
The 2016–17 season would be an injury-depleted campaign for both Sharp individually and the Stars as a team. On October 20, 2016, in a 4–3 SO loss to the Los Angeles Kings, Sharp sustained a concussion as he was hit by Kings defenseman Brayden McNabb, causing him to miss the next 14 games.[21] He then missed 12 more games due to another concussion sustained on December 3, in a 3–0 win over the Colorado Avalanche.[22] He finished the season playing in 48 contests with eight goals and 10 assists for 18 points and the Stars as a team missing the playoffs by 15 points.
Return to Chicago
[edit]On July 1, 2017, Sharp signed a one-year contract with the Chicago Blackhawks for the 2017–18 season.[23] Sharp accepted a pay cut, earning a $800,000 base salary with $200,000 in potential bonuses, to return to Chicago.[23] The Blackhawks named Sharp an alternate captain for their final home game of the season against the St. Louis Blues and honored him after the game, which they lost 4–1.[19] Sharp announced his intention to retire after his final game, commenting, "I think I've known what I wanted to do for a long period of time here, and it's never easy... But I think I'm just ready to take that next step in my life — and looking forward to it."[24] He ended his final season with 10 goals and 11 assists for 21 points in 70 games as the Blackhawks failed to qualify for the playoffs for the first time since 2008, coming 19 points behind the last spot.
Post-retirement
[edit]In October 2018, Sharp joined NBC Sports Chicago as a studio analyst.[25] Sharp joined NBC Sports as a guest analyst for its coverage of the Stanley Cup Playoffs just 10 days after his retirement.[26] After Sharp's part-time work as a studio analyst for NBC Sports during the 2018-19 NHL season, the network announced on September 25, 2019, it had added Sharp to its team of full-time studio analysts.[27] Sharp later left NBC Sports to join NBC Sports Chicago for Chicago Blackhawks telecasts in 2021, and he later share the role with Troy Murray as the team's TV color commentator, replacing Eddie Olczyk.[28][29] Sharp worked the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs for TNT.
Sharp joined the University of Vermont men's ice hockey coaching staff in the fall of 2021.[30][31]
In June 2023, Sharp left the NBC Sports Chicago and the University of Vermont coaching staff to join the Philadelphia Flyers' front office as a special adviser to hockey operations.[32]
Personal life
[edit].jpg)
Sharp was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, to Ian and Ruth Ann Sharp. He had an older brother, Chris, who lived in Calgary, Alberta who died on August 16, 2023.[33][34] Relocating several times in his life, Patrick left his native Manitoba and relocated to Calgary as a child and then moved to Thunder Bay in 1990 at age nine. Patrick lived in Thunder Bay for the rest of his childhood. He was educated and attended local public schools in Calgary, Ottawa and Thunder Bay before settling in Burlington, Vermont, in the United States, to attend the University of Vermont.[35] Sharp's parents remain in Thunder Bay and live on Lake Superior.[36] In December 2009, Sharp was inaccurately announced as "Chicago's Sexiest Athlete" by Victoria's Secret, which then named Derrick Rose of the Chicago Bulls the winner, citing an "internal error".[37]
Sharp was married in July 2010[38] to his longtime girlfriend Abby, whom he met while attending college in Vermont.[39] Their wedding was held in Watch Hill, Rhode Island. Sharp's Blackhawks teammate Patrick Kane was among those in attendance.[40] The couple's first daughter was born in December 2011, and their second daughter was born in October 2013.[41] In March 2011, Sharp was featured on the cover of Chicago magazine in its "50 Most Beautiful Chicagoans" story.[42]
Career statistics
[edit]Regular season and playoffs
[edit]Bold indicates led league
| Regular season | Playoffs | |||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Season | Team | League | GP | G | A | Pts | PIM | GP | G | A | Pts | PIM | ||
| 1997–98 | Kanata Valley Lasers | CJHL | 54 | 11 | 24 | 35 | 22 | 7 | 0 | 4 | 4 | 0 | ||
| 1998–99 | Thunder Bay Flyers | USHL | 55 | 19 | 24 | 43 | 48 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 0 | ||
| 1999–00 | Thunder Bay Flyers | USHL | 56 | 20 | 35 | 55 | 41 | — | — | — | — | — | ||
| 2000–01 | University of Vermont | ECAC | 34 | 12 | 15 | 27 | 36 | — | — | — | — | — | ||
| 2001–02 | University of Vermont | ECAC | 31 | 13 | 13 | 26 | 50 | — | — | — | — | — | ||
| 2002–03 | Philadelphia Phantoms | AHL | 53 | 14 | 19 | 33 | 39 | — | — | — | — | — | ||
| 2002–03 | Philadelphia Flyers | NHL | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | — | — | — | — | — | ||
| 2003–04 | Philadelphia Phantoms | AHL | 35 | 15 | 14 | 29 | 45 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 0 | ||
| 2003–04 | Philadelphia Flyers | NHL | 41 | 5 | 2 | 7 | 55 | 12 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 2 | ||
| 2004–05 | Philadelphia Phantoms | AHL | 75 | 23 | 29 | 52 | 80 | 21 | 8 | 13 | 21 | 20 | ||
| 2005–06 | Philadelphia Flyers | NHL | 22 | 5 | 3 | 8 | 10 | — | — | — | — | — | ||
| 2005–06 | Chicago Blackhawks | NHL | 50 | 9 | 14 | 23 | 36 | — | — | — | — | — | ||
| 2006–07 | Chicago Blackhawks | NHL | 80 | 20 | 15 | 35 | 74 | — | — | — | — | — | ||
| 2007–08 | Chicago Blackhawks | NHL | 80 | 36 | 26 | 62 | 75 | — | — | — | — | — | ||
| 2008–09 | Chicago Blackhawks | NHL | 61 | 26 | 18 | 44 | 41 | 17 | 7 | 4 | 11 | 6 | ||
| 2009–10 | Chicago Blackhawks | NHL | 82 | 25 | 41 | 66 | 28 | 22 | 11 | 11 | 22 | 16 | ||
| 2010–11 | Chicago Blackhawks | NHL | 74 | 34 | 37 | 71 | 38 | 7 | 3 | 2 | 5 | 2 | ||
| 2011–12 | Chicago Blackhawks | NHL | 74 | 33 | 36 | 69 | 38 | 6 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 4 | ||
| 2012–13 | Chicago Blackhawks | NHL | 28 | 6 | 14 | 20 | 14 | 23 | 10 | 6 | 16 | 8 | ||
| 2013–14 | Chicago Blackhawks | NHL | 82 | 34 | 44 | 78 | 40 | 19 | 5 | 5 | 10 | 6 | ||
| 2014–15 | Chicago Blackhawks | NHL | 68 | 16 | 27 | 43 | 33 | 23 | 5 | 10 | 15 | 8 | ||
| 2015–16 | Dallas Stars | NHL | 76 | 20 | 35 | 55 | 27 | 13 | 4 | 2 | 6 | 0 | ||
| 2016–17 | Dallas Stars | NHL | 48 | 8 | 10 | 18 | 31 | — | — | — | — | — | ||
| 2017–18 | Chicago Blackhawks | NHL | 70 | 10 | 11 | 21 | 14 | — | — | — | — | — | ||
| NHL totals | 939 | 287 | 333 | 620 | 536 | 142 | 47 | 40 | 87 | 52 | ||||
International
[edit]| Medal record | ||
|---|---|---|
Representing  Canada
| ||
| Ice hockey | ||
| Olympic Games | ||
 |
2014 Sochi | |
| World Championships | ||
 |
2008 Canada | |
| Year | Team | Event | GP | G | A | Pts | PIM | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2008 | Canada | WC | 9 | 3 | 0 | 3 | 4 | |
| 2012 | Canada | WC | 8 | 1 | 7 | 8 | 2 | |
| 2014 | Canada | OG | 5 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 4 | |
| Senior totals | 22 | 5 | 7 | 12 | 10 | |||
Awards and honours
[edit]| Award | Year |
|---|---|
| College | |
| All-ECAC Rookie Team | 2000–01 |
| AHL | |
| Calder Cup Champion | 2005 |
| NHL | |
| Stanley Cup Champion | 2010, 2013, 2015 |
| NHL All-Star Game | 2011 |
| NHL All-Star Game MVP | 2011 |
| Olympic Gold Medalist – Canada | 2014 |
References
[edit]- ^ "Chicago - Chicago : News : Politics : Things To Do : Sports". Chicago Sun-Times.
- ^ "Flyers Sign Patrick Sharp To A Three-Year Contract". Philadelphia Flyers. May 21, 2002. Archived from the original on June 12, 2002. Retrieved June 4, 2022.
- ^ "Blackhawks Acquire Sharp, Meloche". Chicago Blackhawks. December 5, 2005. Archived from the original on May 21, 2006. Retrieved December 9, 2023.
- ^ Barry, Sal (July 23, 2015). "Who Will Be Named the Chicago Blackhawks' Next Assistant Captain?". PuckJunk.com. Retrieved 2016-05-22.
- ^ Jesse Rogers (March 20, 2011). "Patrick Sharp hurt, leaves in first". EPN.com. ESPN. Retrieved August 13, 2025.
- ^ Jahns, Adam (3 August 2011). "Blackhawks keep Patrick Sharp in their future with 5-year extension". Chicago Sun-Times. Retrieved 3 August 2011.
- ^ "Patrick Sharp undergoes appendectomy". Chicago Blackhawks. 2011-09-13. Retrieved 2011-09-13.
- ^ Kuc, Chris (25 November 2011). "Fast start inspires Sharp to 2nd career hat trick". Chicago Tribune. Retrieved 26 November 2011.
- ^ "Chicago Blackhawks vs. Anaheim Ducks - Scoring Summary - November 25, 2011". Sports Illustrated. Archived from the original on February 22, 2014. Retrieved 26 November 2011.
- ^ Kuc, Chris (25 November 2011). "Chicago Blackhawks rally for 6-5 victory over Anaheim Ducks". Chicago Tribune. Retrieved 26 November 2011.
- ^ "The NHL Lockout Workout". 14 November 2012.
- ^ "No rest for Patrick Sharp".
- ^ CBS News (March 8, 2013). "Sharp Out 3-4 Weeks With Shoulder Separation". cbsnews.com. CBS News. Retrieved July 20, 2025.
- ^ "Blackhawks cap record-setting start with Stanley Cup win". ESPN. ESPN. Associated Press. June 25, 2013. Retrieved April 16, 2024.
- ^ "Patrick Sharp extra sharp with birthday hat trick". Chicago Tribune. December 27, 2013.
- ^ "Chicago Blackhawks - New Jersey Devils - January 3rd, 2014". NHL.com.
- ^ "2014 Canada Olympic Roster". Archived from the original on August 21, 2014. Retrieved January 7, 2014.
- ^ Patrick Iversen (November 4, 2014). "Patrick Sharp injury: Alexei Emelin hit sends Blackhawks winger to locker room". sbnation.com. SB Nation. Retrieved July 20, 2025.
- ^ a b Dietz, John (2018-04-07). "Emotional Sharp announces retirement after Blackhawks loss". Daily Herald. Retrieved 2018-04-07.
- ^ Lazerus, Mark (July 10, 2015). "Blackhawks trade Patrick Sharp to Dallas Stars". Chicago Sun Times. Archived from the original on July 12, 2015. Retrieved July 10, 2015.
- ^ Fox Sports (October 20, 2016). "Dallas Stars F Patrick Sharp Sidelined With Possible Concussion". foxsports.com. Fox Sports. Retrieved July 20, 2025.
- ^ Callum Ferguson (December 3, 2016). "Stars' Patrick Sharp on IR with concussion-like symptoms". sportsnet.ca. Sportsnet. Retrieved July 20, 2025.
- ^ a b Lazerus, Mark (2017-07-01). "Patrick Sharp returning to Blackhawks in free agency". Chicago Sun-Times. Archived from the original on 2017-07-01. Retrieved 2017-07-01.
- ^ Campbell, Rich (2018-04-07). "Patrick Sharp savors Blackhawks' home finale, says after 4-1 loss he 'probably' will retire". Chicago Tribune. Retrieved 2018-04-07.
- ^ "Patrick Sharp to join NBC Sports Chicago's Blackhawks coverage team". nbcsports.com. October 30, 2018. Retrieved March 10, 2019.
- ^ "Patrick Sharp debuts as Stanley Cup analyst on NBCSN". nbcsports.com. April 17, 2018. Retrieved August 16, 2020.
- ^ "NBC SPORTS ANNOUNCES GAME AND STUDIO COMMENTATORS FOR 2019-20 NHL SEASON". nbcsportsgrouppressbox.com. September 25, 2019. Retrieved August 16, 2020.
- ^ Agrest, Jeff (2021-05-06). "TNT joins land of TV sports behemoths with NHL rights deal". Chicago Sun-Times. Retrieved 2022-02-10.
- ^ Roumeliotis, Charlie (2022-08-25). "Blackhawks name Troy Murray, Patrick Sharp as TV analysts". NBC Sports Chicago. Retrieved 2022-10-09.
- ^ "Patrick Sharp joins UVM staff". Retrieved 3 January 2022.
- ^ "PATRICK SHARP UVM Athletics Men's Ice Hockey". UVM Athletics. Retrieved 3 January 2022.
- ^ Thompson, Phil (2023-06-13). "Patrick Sharp takes front office job with Philadelphia Flyers, continuing shakeup to Chicago Blackhawks' TV booth". Chicago Tribune. Retrieved 2023-06-13.
- ^ "Sharp shares Cup". 10 July 2010.
- ^ "Kings mourn the loss of alumnus Chris Sharp". Thunder Bay Kings. August 20, 2023. Retrieved November 28, 2023.
- ^ http://tbay.ok.bc.ca/includes/datafiles/print.php?id=77032&title=From%20Thunder%20Bay%20to%20Sharp-er%20Pastures[permanent dead link]
- ^ "Hockey Hall of Fame - Stanley Cup Journals: 2010, 11". Archived from the original on 2011-06-29. Retrieved 2010-10-15.
- ^ "Derrick Rose Named "Chicago's Sexiest Athlete"". 2 December 2009.
- ^ "Archived copy". Archived from the original on 2011-07-18. Retrieved 2010-10-15.
{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: archived copy as title (link) - ^ "Kane is able to play hero for Blackhawks".
- ^ "Patrick Sharp & Patrick Kane Talk Hockey".
- ^ "Blackhawks' Sharp Becomes a Father". 10 December 2011.
- ^ "Behind the Scenes with '50 Most Beautiful Chicagoans' Cover Boy Patrick Sharp". Chicago Magazine.
External links
[edit]
- Biographical information and career statistics from NHL.com, or Eliteprospects.com, or Hockey-Reference.com, or The Internet Hockey Database
- Patrick Sharp at Team Canada
- Patrick Sharp at Olympics.com
- Patrick Sharp at Olympedia
Patrick Sharp
View on GrokipediaEarly life
Family and upbringing
Patrick Sharp was born on December 27, 1981, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, to parents Ian and Ruth Ann Sharp.[10] He grew up in a supportive family environment, with an older brother, Chris, who shared a passion for hockey and later pursued it at higher levels.[10][11] The Sharp family relocated frequently during his early years, moving from Winnipeg to Calgary, Alberta, in 1984 when Sharp was three years old, and then to Thunder Bay, Ontario, in 1990 at the age of nine.[11] These moves shaped his formative experiences, immersing him in different Canadian communities known for their strong hockey culture. In Thunder Bay, where the family settled on the shores of Lake Superior, Sharp spent the rest of his childhood and began to cultivate a deep interest in ice hockey. His parents provided unwavering encouragement, with his mother Ruth Ann offering pivotal advice like "Believe" that influenced his resilient mindset throughout his life.[12] The northern Ontario setting, with its harsh winters and access to outdoor rinks, fostered an early affinity for the sport, as Sharp often recalled dreaming of emulating his childhood NHL heroes.[12] Sharp's initial foray into organized hockey came through local youth leagues in Thunder Bay, where he joined the Thunder Bay Kings program as a young player, starting around age 14 in the mid-1990s.[13] This involvement marked the beginning of his competitive journey, influenced by his brother's experiences and the family's relocation to a region with robust minor hockey opportunities.[14] The move to Thunder Bay at a young age thus played a key role in exposing him to structured play and community support that propelled his development.Education and early hockey involvement
Patrick Sharp was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, on December 27, 1981, but his family relocated to Thunder Bay, Ontario, when he was nine years old, where he was raised and attended local schools during his formative years.[12] In Thunder Bay, Sharp began his involvement in organized hockey during his early teens, playing minor hockey with the Thunder Bay Kings, where he participated in local tournaments to develop his skills around age 14.[13] By age 15, Sharp's performances in these youth programs attracted initial scouting interest, paving the way for his transition to junior hockey the following year.[2]Playing career
Junior and college hockey
Patrick Sharp began his organized junior hockey career in the Central Canada Hockey League (CCHL) with the Kanata Valley Lasers during the 1997–98 season, where he appeared in 54 regular-season games and recorded 11 goals, 24 assists, and 35 points, while accumulating 22 penalty minutes.[2][3][15] The following year, Sharp transitioned to the United States Hockey League (USHL), joining the Thunder Bay Flyers for the 1998–99 season; he contributed 19 goals and 24 assists for 43 points in 55 games, adding 48 penalty minutes, and posted 2 points in 3 playoff contests. Although selected in the seventh round (138th overall) of the 1998 OHL Priority Selection by the Peterborough Petes, Sharp chose the USHL path, which allowed him to preserve his NCAA eligibility while competing at a high level of junior hockey.[2][3][15] In his sophomore USHL season with the Thunder Bay Flyers during 1999–2000, Sharp elevated his performance, scoring 20 goals and adding 35 assists for 55 points in 56 regular-season games and 41 penalty minutes, establishing himself as one of the league's top scorers and demonstrating strong offensive development. This success paved the way for his commitment to NCAA Division I hockey. Sharp's junior career highlighted his versatility as a forward and his ability to adapt to competitive environments, setting the foundation for his transition to college play.[2][3] Sharp enrolled at the University of Vermont and played two seasons for the Catamounts in the Hockey East Conference. As a freshman in 2000–01, he skated in 34 games, registering 12 goals, 15 assists, and 27 points while accruing 36 penalty minutes; his contributions helped Vermont finish with a 14–17–5 record, and he was recognized with selection to the ECAC All-Rookie Team.[16][3][2][1] In his sophomore year of 2001–02, Sharp recorded 13 goals and 13 assists for 26 points in 31 games, with 50 penalty minutes, serving as the team's leading scorer.[3][2] Selected by the Philadelphia Flyers in the third round (95th overall) of the 2001 NHL Entry Draft following his freshman season, Sharp forwent further college eligibility after his sophomore year to turn professional, signing an entry-level contract in May 2002.[1]Philadelphia Flyers
After completing two years of college hockey at the University of Vermont, Sharp signed a three-year entry-level contract with the Philadelphia Flyers on May 21, 2002.[17] He was immediately assigned to the Flyers' American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Philadelphia Phantoms, for the 2002–03 season, where he recorded 14 goals and 19 assists in 53 regular-season games.[3] Sharp made his NHL debut with the Flyers on October 10, 2002, but appeared in only three games that season without recording a point.[18] In 2003–04, he split time between the NHL and AHL, playing 41 games with Philadelphia and tallying 5 goals and 2 assists while accumulating 55 penalty minutes.[1] His AHL performance that year included 15 goals and 14 assists in 35 games for the Phantoms, though he faced multiple demotions amid efforts to establish consistency in the professional ranks.[3] The 2004–05 NHL lockout kept Sharp in the AHL for the full season, where he excelled with the Phantoms, posting 23 goals and 29 assists in 75 games and helping the team win the Calder Cup championship.[19] He was selected to represent the Phantoms at the 2005 AHL All-Star Game, showcasing his emerging skill as a versatile forward.[20] Returning to the Flyers for 2005–06, Sharp struggled for ice time in a crowded roster, appearing in 22 games with 5 goals and 3 assists before being traded to the Chicago Blackhawks on December 5, 2005, along with forward Éric Meloche, in exchange for forward Matt Ellison and a third-round pick in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft.[21] The move was driven by Philadelphia's need for roster adjustments and Sharp's limited opportunities to secure a regular NHL role.[22]Chicago Blackhawks (2005–2017)
Sharp was traded to the Chicago Blackhawks from the Philadelphia Flyers on December 5, 2005, in exchange for forward Matt Ellison and a third-round draft pick. He made his debut with the Blackhawks on December 7, 2005, against the Philadelphia Flyers, recording no points in a 3-2 victory.[23] Initially slotted as a depth forward on the third or fourth line, Sharp contributed 9 goals and 14 assists in 50 games during the 2005–06 season as the team continued its rebuild and missed the playoffs, finishing last in the Central Division.[24] Sharp's role expanded significantly in the 2007–08 season, marking his breakout year with a career-high 36 goals and 26 assists for 62 points in 80 games, establishing him as a top-line winger.[24] He formed a dynamic line alongside rookie center Jonathan Toews and winger Kris Versteeg, which became a cornerstone of Chicago's offensive resurgence and helped the Blackhawks return to the playoffs for the first time since 2002. In the following 2008–09 season, Sharp posted 26 goals and 18 assists in 61 games before a knee injury sidelined him for the remainder of the regular season and playoffs.[24] The 2009–10 season saw Sharp solidify his status as a key contributor, tallying 25 goals and 41 assists in 82 games while serving as an alternate captain.[24] In the playoffs, he excelled with 11 goals and 11 assists in 22 games, including crucial tallies in the Stanley Cup Final against the Flyers, as the Blackhawks defeated Philadelphia in six games to win their first championship since 1961 on June 9, 2010. Sharp signed a four-year, $15.6 million contract extension with Chicago on December 16, 2007, securing his future with the team ahead of their rising contention window. Building on the dynasty, Sharp reached new heights in the 2010–11 season, scoring 34 goals and adding 37 assists in 74 games, and earning a selection to the NHL All-Star Game where he was named MVP after recording three points. He signed another extension on August 3, 2011, a five-year deal worth $39 million, reflecting his integral role in the core group. Injuries began to impact his consistency, including multiple concussions during the 2011–12 season that limited him to 74 games despite 33 goals and 36 assists.[25] Sharp's production peaked again in 2013–14 with 34 goals and a league-leading 44 assists among wingers, totaling 78 points in 82 games.[24] He scored his 200th career NHL goal on December 3, 2013, against the Dallas Stars. In the 2013 playoffs, Sharp led all scorers with 10 goals and 6 assists in 23 games, powering the Blackhawks to their second Stanley Cup in four years by defeating the Boston Bruins in six games. The following season, despite missing time due to a right knee surgery in the offseason, he contributed 16 goals and 27 assists in 68 regular-season games before adding 5 goals and 10 assists in 23 playoff games en route to the third Cup victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2015.[24] On July 10, 2015, amid salary cap constraints, the Blackhawks traded Sharp and defenseman Stephen Johns to the Dallas Stars in exchange for defenseman Trevor Daley and forward Ryan Garbutt, ending his decade-long primary tenure in Chicago where he amassed 541 points (239 goals, 302 assists) in 569 games and won three Stanley Cups.Dallas Stars
On July 10, 2015, Sharp was traded from the Chicago Blackhawks to the Dallas Stars along with defenseman Stephen Johns in exchange for defenseman Trevor Daley and forward Ryan Garbutt, a move prompted by Chicago's salary cap constraints following their Stanley Cup victory.[26] In his debut season with Dallas during 2015–16, Sharp adapted quickly to the Stars' high-tempo offense, registering 20 goals and 35 assists for 55 points in 76 regular-season games while posting a minus-3 rating.[24] His scoring touch helped bolster the top-six forward group alongside stars like Tyler Seguin and Jamie Benn, contributing to Dallas securing the second seed in the Central Division and their first playoff berth since 2008. In the postseason, Sharp added four goals and six points across 13 games as the Stars advanced to the Western Conference Finals before falling to the St. Louis Blues.[24] The 2016–17 campaign proved more challenging for Sharp, as injuries hampered his availability and performance. He sustained two separate concussions—first in October 2016, sidelining him for 14 games, and again in December, costing another 12 outings—before a nagging hip issue led to season-ending surgery on March 28, 2017, limiting him to 48 games overall with eight goals, 10 assists, and 18 points while posting a team-worst minus-22 rating.[24][27] Despite the setbacks, Sharp's experience as a three-time Stanley Cup champion provided valuable mentorship to Dallas's young core, fostering team morale and leadership in the locker room during a disappointing season that saw the Stars miss the playoffs.[28] Following the conclusion of his contract, Sharp entered unrestricted free agency and opted to return to the Blackhawks, signing a one-year, $800,000 deal on July 1, 2017, prioritizing a homecoming over potential offers elsewhere.[29]Chicago Blackhawks (2018)
On July 1, 2017, Patrick Sharp signed a one-year, $800,000 contract (with up to $200,000 in performance bonuses) to return to the Chicago Blackhawks for the 2017–18 season, marking his second stint with the team after two years with the Dallas Stars.[29] At age 35, Sharp embraced a veteran role, providing leadership and mentorship to the Blackhawks' younger players amid a rebuilding phase, while contributing offensively with 10 goals and 11 assists in 70 regular-season games.[24] His production was modest compared to his peak years, reflecting the physical toll of a long career marked by prior hip surgery and other ailments, but he averaged around 12-13 minutes of ice time per game, often on the third or fourth lines.[30] As the season progressed, Sharp's presence helped stabilize the locker room for emerging talents like Alex DeBrincat and Nick Schmaltz, emphasizing team culture and professionalism drawn from his three Stanley Cup experiences.[31] The Blackhawks missed the playoffs, finishing with a 33–39–10 record after being eliminated in the first round the prior year. His final goal came on March 26, 2018, against the San Jose Sharks, underscoring his enduring scoring touch despite reduced minutes. Sharp announced his retirement on April 9, 2018, following a 5-3 loss to the Winnipeg Jets—his hometown team—after 15 NHL seasons and 939 regular-season games.[9][1] He received a standing ovation during the game, with the Blackhawks honoring him via a video tribute highlighting his contributions to their 2010, 2013, and 2015 championships. Earlier, on April 5, 2018, fans at the United Center gave him an emotional farewell in what became his last home game, celebrating his 142 playoff appearances and leadership across 1,081 total NHL games (regular season plus playoffs).[32] Discussions about retiring his No. 10 jersey surfaced in subsequent years, given his franchise records in goals (249) and game-winning goals (38), but as of 2025, the Blackhawks have not pursued it, prioritizing other legends like Marian Hossa.[33]International career
Sharp represented Canada at the 2008 IIHF World Championship, held in Halifax and Quebec City, where he scored three goals in nine games en route to a silver medal finish.[2] In 2012, Sharp returned to the IIHF World Championship in Helsinki and Stockholm, contributing one goal and seven assists in eight games as Canada finished fifth overall.[2] Sharp was selected for Team Canada at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, where he tallied one goal in five games during the gold medal-winning tournament.[4] Prior to the 2010 Vancouver Olympics, Sharp attended Canada's national men's team orientation camp in August 2009 but was not named to the final roster.[34] Sharp's international commitments were limited outside these tournaments, as his NHL schedule with the Chicago Blackhawks took precedence during peak seasons.[1]Post-playing career
Broadcasting roles
Following his retirement from professional hockey at the conclusion of the 2017–18 season, Patrick Sharp transitioned into broadcasting by joining NBC Sports Chicago as a studio analyst for the Chicago Blackhawks' pregame and postgame shows starting in the 2018–19 season.[35] In this capacity, he offered expert commentary for approximately 25–30 regular-season games annually, along with select playoff matchups, leveraging his firsthand knowledge from 10 seasons with the Blackhawks, including three Stanley Cup victories.[36] Sharp's role evolved in August 2022 when he was named a color commentator for Blackhawks telecasts on NBC Sports Chicago, sharing duties with Troy Murray in a split arrangement that covered additional regular-season and postseason games.[37] His work extended to national platforms, including serving as a studio analyst for NBC's coverage of the 2019 Stanley Cup Final between the St. Louis Blues and Boston Bruins.[38] In 2023, Sharp provided color commentary for TNT's Stanley Cup Playoffs broadcasts, including second-round and conference finals games.[39] He has also made guest appearances on NHL Network's NHL Tonight, discussing topics such as Stanley Cup anniversaries and league developments.[40] Additionally, Sharp has contributed as a guest to NBC Sports Chicago's Blackhawks Talk podcast, sharing insights on team performance and his post-playing career. Throughout his broadcasting tenure, Sharp was commended for delivering thoughtful, experience-based analysis that enhanced viewer understanding of the game. Sharp stepped away from his broadcasting roles in June 2023 to accept a position with the Philadelphia Flyers' front office.[41]Team ambassadorship and other activities
Following his retirement from professional hockey in 2018, Patrick Sharp has remained affiliated with the Chicago Blackhawks through alumni activities, including participation in exhibition games against other NHL alumni teams, such as the 2022 matchup against the Dallas Stars Alumni at Fifth Third Arena.[42] In 2022, Sharp joined fellow former Blackhawks Eddie Olczyk and Marian Hossa on an informal advisory panel to assist the organization in its search for a new general manager amid a transitional period.[43] Sharp has contributed to youth hockey development in the Chicago area, notably through community events and clinics during and after his playing career, such as a 2013 meet-and-greet with local high school players from the Lincoln-Way program where he shared insights on professional hockey. Post-retirement, he has extended these efforts via broader NHL alumni initiatives, including skills sessions at youth tournaments. In 2021, Sharp took on an occasional coaching role as a volunteer assistant for the University of Vermont men's ice hockey team, his alma mater, helping with practices and player mentorship during the season.[6] Outside of hockey, Sharp has pursued business ventures in real estate, investing in Chicago properties including the purchase of a 7,300-square-foot Lakeview mansion for $2.95 million in 2012, which he later rented out at $10,500 per month before selling for $3.14 million in 2021; he also sold a Lincoln Park condominium for $715,000 in 2024.[44][45][46][47] As of 2025, Sharp serves as assistant to the general manager for the Philadelphia Flyers, a role he assumed in 2023 that evolved from special advisor to hockey operations and focuses on player development, including evaluating prospects in minor and junior leagues, skating with young players in the Flyers system such as during development camps, and providing mentorship to those transitioning to professional levels.[48][49]Personal life
Family
Patrick Sharp married his longtime girlfriend, Abby, in July 2010 after dating since their college years.[50] The couple welcomed their first daughter, Madelyn Grace, on December 9, 2011, at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago.[51] Their second daughter, Sadie Ellen, was born on October 13, 2013.[52] During Sharp's primary stint with the Chicago Blackhawks from 2005 to 2017, the family lived in the Chicago area, owning properties such as a Lakeview mansion purchased in 2012 and a Lincoln Park condominium.[53][47] Sharp has described prioritizing family bonding and work-life balance despite the rigors of frequent travel during the NHL season.[50] After Sharp's trade to the Dallas Stars in July 2015, the family relocated to Dallas while retaining their Chicago home; they returned to the Chicago area following his 2017 buyout and re-signing with the Blackhawks. In 2024, the Sharp family acquired property in Wilmington, Vermont, aligning with Sharp's appointment as an assistant coach at the University of Vermont.[54] The Sharps have appeared together at Blackhawks events, including pre-game moments during the 2015 Stanley Cup Final where Sharp skated to the glass to greet his wife and young daughters.[55]Philanthropy and community involvement
Patrick Sharp has been actively involved in the Chicago Blackhawks' community outreach programs throughout his playing career, participating in initiatives such as school visits, toy drives, and fan engagement events aimed at supporting local youth and families. In December 2013, he met with Lincoln-Way hockey players in Frankfort, Illinois, as part of a holiday toy drive organized by the team, where the young athletes collected donations for children's charities.[56] Similarly, in March 2018, Sharp visited Old Quarry Middle School in Lemont, Illinois, rewarding students who collected over 35,000 donation items for Goodwill's annual drive—the highest among participating schools—highlighting his commitment to encouraging community service among children.[57] Sharp's philanthropic efforts have extended to supporting youth hockey accessibility and fan experiences. In January 2015, he contributed to the Blackhawks' #WhatsYourGoal campaign by fulfilling the dream of 16-year-old blind fan Christina DeVries, who threw the ceremonial first puck at a game and met her hockey idols, demonstrating his dedication to making the sport inclusive for underserved fans.[58] Additionally, items from his career, including his 2015 championship team locker stall, were auctioned through the Chicago Blackhawks Foundation's Centennial Charity Auction to raise funds for community programs benefiting Chicago-area youth.[59] In December 2019, post-retirement, Sharp partnered with Airbnb to donate $25,000 to the Greater Toronto Hockey League Legacy Fund, aiding billet families and youth hockey development in his hometown region.[60] Following his own experiences with concussions during his career, Sharp has advocated for improved player safety protocols in the NHL. In November 2016, after missing games due to lingering symptoms, he expressed gratitude for the league's evolving culture on head injuries, emphasizing the importance of rest and evaluation to prevent long-term effects, and noted how these changes benefited his recovery.[61] This personal perspective has positioned him as a supporter of broader awareness efforts within the hockey community.Career statistics and awards
Regular season and playoffs
Patrick Sharp appeared in 939 National Hockey League (NHL) regular season games over 15 seasons from 2002 to 2018, recording 287 goals, 333 assists, 620 points, 536 penalty minutes, and a plus/minus rating of +39.[24] In the playoffs, he suited up for 142 games, posting 47 goals, 40 assists, 87 points, 52 penalty minutes, and a plus/minus of +3.[24] His career statistics are broken down by team as follows:| Team | GP | G | A | Pts | PIM | +/- |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia Flyers | 66 | 10 | 5 | 15 | 67 | +1 |
| Chicago Blackhawks | 749 | 249 | 283 | 532 | 411 | +63 |
| Dallas Stars | 124 | 28 | 45 | 73 | 58 | -25 |
| NHL Totals | 939 | 287 | 333 | 620 | 536 | +39 |
Regular Season Statistics
| Season | Team | GP | G | A | Pts | PIM | +/- |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2002–03 | PHI | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| 2003–04 | PHI | 41 | 5 | 2 | 7 | 55 | -3 |
| 2005–06 | PHI | 22 | 5 | 3 | 8 | 10 | +4 |
| 2005–06 | CHI | 50 | 9 | 14 | 23 | 36 | +1 |
| 2006–07 | CHI | 80 | 20 | 15 | 35 | 74 | -15 |
| 2007–08 | CHI | 80 | 36 | 26 | 62 | 55 | +23 |
| 2008–09 | CHI | 61 | 26 | 18 | 44 | 41 | +6 |
| 2009–10 | CHI | 82 | 25 | 41 | 66 | 28 | +24 |
| 2010–11 | CHI | 74 | 34 | 37 | 71 | 38 | -1 |
| 2011–12 | CHI | 74 | 33 | 36 | 69 | 38 | +28 |
| 2012–13 | CHI | 28 | 6 | 14 | 20 | 14 | +8 |
| 2013–14 | CHI | 82 | 34 | 44 | 78 | 40 | +13 |
| 2014–15 | CHI | 68 | 16 | 27 | 43 | 33 | -8 |
| 2015–16 | DAL | 76 | 20 | 35 | 55 | 27 | -3 |
| 2016–17 | DAL | 48 | 8 | 10 | 18 | 31 | -22 |
| 2017–18 | CHI | 70 | 10 | 11 | 21 | 14 | -16 |
| Total | 939 | 287 | 333 | 620 | 536 | +39 |
Playoff Statistics
| Season | Team | GP | G | A | Pts | PIM | +/- |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2003–04 | PHI | 12 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 2 | -2 |
| 2008–09 | CHI | 17 | 7 | 4 | 11 | 6 | -1 |
| 2009–10 | CHI | 22 | 11 | 11 | 22 | 16 | +10 |
| 2010–11 | CHI | 7 | 3 | 2 | 5 | 2 | +1 |
| 2011–12 | CHI | 6 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 4 | -2 |
| 2012–13 | CHI | 23 | 10 | 6 | 16 | 8 | +1 |
| 2013–14 | CHI | 19 | 5 | 5 | 10 | 6 | -2 |
| 2014–15 | CHI | 23 | 5 | 10 | 15 | 8 | +2 |
| 2015–16 | DAL | 13 | 4 | 2 | 6 | 0 | -4 |
| Total | 142 | 47 | 40 | 87 | 52 | +3 |
International statistics
Patrick Sharp represented Canada at the senior international level in two IIHF World Championships and the 2014 Winter Olympics, where he contributed offensively while helping secure medals in two of the three tournaments.[2] His international play highlighted his versatility as a forward.[4] The following table summarizes his statistics from these competitions:| Tournament | Year | Team | GP | G | A | Pts | Medal |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IIHF World Championship | 2008 | Canada | 9 | 3 | 0 | 3 | Silver |
| IIHF World Championship | 2012 | Canada | 8 | 1 | 7 | 8 | None |
| Olympic Games | 2014 | Canada | 5 | 1 | 0 | 1 | Gold |