Mika Zibanejad: 1000th NHL Game & Emotional Tributes

Novel York Rangers center Mika Zibanejad reached a milestone on Sunday, March 22, 2026, playing in his 1,000th National Hockey League game against the New Jersey Devils. The game, held at Madison Square Garden, was marked by recognition of the Swedish player’s decade-plus career in the NHL.

Zibanejad, currently an alternate captain for the Rangers, was originally drafted sixth overall in the 2011 NHL entry draft by the Ottawa Senators. He began his NHL journey with Ottawa, appearing in nine games during the 2011-12 season before being returned to Djurgårdens IF in Sweden. He was traded to the Rangers on July 18, 2016 and has since become a key player for the team.

The celebration surrounding the game included a pre-game ceremony honoring Zibanejad’s achievement. Reports indicate a particularly emotional moment occurred when his wife surprised him with a personal message during the event. Details of the message have not been publicly released.

Zibanejad’s career includes international success with the Swedish national team, having won the 2012 World Junior Ice Hockey Championships and the 2018 IIHF World Championship. He transitioned to hockey after initially playing association football as a child, beginning his hockey career with Hammarby IF before moving to AIK IF and then Djurgårdens IF.

During the milestone game against the Devils, Zibanejad scored two goals, contributing to a New York Rangers victory. The game highlighted his continued offensive prowess and importance to the Rangers lineup.

As of March 24, 2026, the New York Rangers have not announced any further plans to commemorate Zibanejad’s 1,000th game beyond the initial recognition at Madison Square Garden.