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Link Gaetz

Link Gaetz is a Canadian former professional ice hockey defenceman known for playing as an enforcer in the NHL during the early 1990s.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Link Gaetz is a Canadian former professional ice hockey defenceman known for playing as an enforcer in the NHL during the early 1990s. He played 65 NHL games for the Minnesota North Stars and San Jose Sharks and was drafted by Minnesota in 1988.

Early life and junior career

Gaetz was born in Vancouver, British Columbia, and developed as a defenceman in western Canada before turning professional. Available sources identify him as a Canadian player from the Vancouver area.

NHL career

Gaetz played 65 games in the NHL with the Minnesota North Stars and San Jose Sharks. He was drafted by Minnesota in the second round of the 1988 NHL draft.

Playing style

Gaetz was known primarily as an enforcer, with sources describing him as a tough, physical player. Hockey statistics sources list him as a left-shooting defenceman with a large frame.

Later life

Public sources from recent years indicate that Gaetz has remained a subject of media coverage after his playing career. Some reports mention legal issues, but these are separate from his hockey biography.

Key facts

  • Born in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
  • Played professionally as a defenceman and enforcer.
  • Appeared in 65 NHL games across three seasons.
  • Played for the Minnesota North Stars and San Jose Sharks.
  • Was selected 40th overall in the 1988 NHL draft by Minnesota.
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Canadian context

Gaetz is a Canadian player from Vancouver, British Columbia, and his career is part of the history of Canadian-born NHL enforcers.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Link Gaetz?
Link Gaetz is a Canadian former professional ice hockey defenceman who played in the NHL for the Minnesota North Stars and San Jose Sharks.
When was Link Gaetz born?
He was born on October 2, 1968.
Where was Link Gaetz born?
He was born in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
How many NHL games did he play?
He played 65 NHL games.
Which NHL teams did he play for?
He played for the Minnesota North Stars and the San Jose Sharks.
Was Link Gaetz drafted?
Yes. He was drafted 40th overall in the second round of the 1988 NHL draft by the Minnesota North Stars.

References

  1. QuantHockey — https://www.quanthockey.com/hockey-stats-nhl/en/profile.php?player=1863
    Supports: Birth place, position, shot, height/weight, and player profile details.
  2. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Link_Gaetz
    Supports: Birth date and NHL teams played for.
  3. Elite Prospects — https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/51948/link-gaetz
    Supports: Birth date, birthplace, nationality, position, draft information, and status as retired.
  4. ESPN — https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/page/Mag15thelegendoflink/hockey-scariest-man-link-gaetz-remember-most-mayhem-espn-magazine-archives
    Supports: General career context and reputation as an enforcer.