Five Artemiy Panarin facts

Russian forward Artemiy Panarin has become one of the most popular figures of the national team, and while he is busy in Pittsburgh training for the 2016 World Cup of Hockey, take in five facts about his career:

Took up jiu-jitsu

Artemiy never lets himself go to seed during his summer holidays, and he is often pictured riding horses in Russia and doing various other physical activities. This year, he decided to try out some jiu-jitsu martial arts in Saint Petersburg, and that means only one thing - don't make Artemiy angry!

Has his grandfather to thank

While growing up as a young boy in the small town of Korkino, Artemiy's grandfather Vladimir believed in his grandson's ice hockey abilities, and forced him to start training. Artemiy didn't think that anything would come of it, but as he himself now admits, it was a great thing that Vladimir pushed him on to the ice! 

Won the 2011 World Juniors for Russia

Remember that stunning World Junior Championship final in 2011? You know, that one where Russia recovered from a three goal deficit to beat arch rivals Canada 5:3. Artemiy was the main figure behind Russia's unforgettable comeback, and he ended up netting the winning goal. No wonder why that game was called the Russian Revolution.

Struck up an amazing partnership with Patrick Kane

This year, Artemiy became only the seventh Russian to win the Calder Trophy, awarded to the NHL's best rookie. His breakout year with the Chicago Blackhawks left many North Americans in awe of Artemiy's talent, and Canadian journalist Bob McKenzie mentioned that Artemiy was behind teammate Patrick Kane's 2015/2016 season success.

Has always loved smiling

Even when in school, Artemiy could never stop smiling. When in class, he would often smile at his teachers, and they would immediately hand him a decent grade! Smiles really can be powerful.

Tomorrow, Artemiy Panarin will compete in the Canada - Russia World Cup of Hockey warm-up match in Pittsburgh, the USA.

Russian Ice Hockey Federation