Last Updated on November 14, 2026 by Bernald Sanders
Dmitry Kulikov is a Russian professional ice hockey player who plays as a defenseman for the Florida Panthers in the National Hockey League (NHL). Born on October 29, 1990, in Lipetsk, Russia, Kulikov is a two-time Stanley Cup champion who helped Florida win consecutive championships in 2024 and 2025.
Beyond his successful hockey career, Kulikov is a husband, father, son, and twin brother. He is married to Emelie Kulikova, formerly Emelie Olsson, a Swedish woman whom he married in July 2015. The couple has two children: a son named Maxton and a daughter named Evelina.
His parents are Vladimir and Irina Kulikov, while his twin sister, Alina Kulikova, pursued figure skating during her youth. His family’s involvement in skating and hockey helped shape his journey from Russia to the NHL.
Dmitry Kulikov’s Girlfriend and Wife: Who Is He Married To?
Dmitry Kulikov is married to Emelie Kulikova (née Olsson), his longtime girlfriend and partner. The couple married in July 2015 in Sweden after developing a relationship during Kulikov’s early NHL career.
Dmitry Kulikov’s Wife: Emelie Olsson
Emelie Kulikova is Swedish and has supported her husband throughout his professional hockey career in North America.
The couple met in South Florida during Kulikov’s first stint with the Florida Panthers, according to an October 2017 interview published by the Winnipeg Free Press.
Their relationship continued as Kulikov established himself as a regular NHL defenseman.
Emelie later accompanied him during his time with several NHL organizations, including the Buffalo Sabres, Winnipeg Jets, New Jersey Devils, Edmonton Oilers, Minnesota Wild, Anaheim Ducks, and Pittsburgh Penguins.
Although Emelie occasionally shares family photographs publicly, she generally maintains a relatively private personal life.
Reliable details about her professional occupation, educational background, and childhood have not been widely established.
Dmitry Kulikov and Emelie’s Wedding
Dmitry Kulikov and Emelie Olsson married in early July 2015 in Sweden.
According to a July 7, 2015, report published by Sports.ru, the wedding took place in Emelie’s home country.
Additional reporting from Lipetsk sports publication Championat48 identified the venue as Krägga Herrgård, a historic hotel located approximately 50 kilometers from Stockholm on the shores of Lake Mälaren.
The ceremony brought together relatives and friends from the couple’s Russian and Swedish backgrounds.
Among the guests were Kulikov’s twin sister, Alina, and her husband at the time, Russian professional ice hockey forward Anton Korolev.
Following the wedding, Emelie adopted her husband’s surname and became known as Emelie Kulikova.
How Dmitry Kulikov and His Wife Maintain Their Family Connections
Because Kulikov is Russian and his wife is Swedish, the couple maintains connections with both countries.
In an August 2021 interview, Kulikov discussed spending approximately six weeks in Europe with his family during the NHL offseason.
They visited Russia and Sweden, allowing them to reconnect with relatives.
He also explained that Emelie supported his decision to sign with the Minnesota Wild that summer.
Her encouragement helped him feel more comfortable about another move during his professional career.
Despite spending much of their married life in North America, the couple continues to value their European family connections.
Dmitry Kulikov’s Children: Does He Have a Son or Daughter?
Dmitry Kulikov has two publicly confirmed children with his wife, Emelie: a son named Maxton Kulikov and a daughter named Evelina Kulikova.
The couple welcomed their first child in April 2017 and their second child in October 2019.
Dmitry Kulikov’s Son: Maxton Kulikov
Maxton Kulikov was born on April 28, 2017, while his father was playing for the Buffalo Sabres.
His birth marked an important milestone for Dmitry and Emelie, who had married approximately two years earlier.
On May 2, 2017, Emelie publicly announced their son’s arrival through Instagram.
Russian sports newspaper Sport-Express reported the announcement on May 4, confirming that the baby was named Maxton.
The couple expressed happiness about welcoming their first child and beginning their journey as parents.
Maxton Kulikov’s Interest in Ice Hockey
Like his father, Maxton developed an interest in ice hockey at a young age.
During an interview with the Florida Panthers in January 2025, Kulikov explained that his son enjoyed playing hockey and regularly attended the rink.
Maxton, who is also called Max, has participated in the Jr. Panthers youth hockey program in South Florida.
In October 2024, NHL.com reported that Kulikov had brought the Stanley Cup to the Baptist Health IcePlex in Fort Lauderdale, where his son played hockey.
The visit allowed Maxton and other young players to see the championship trophy up close.
Kulikov explained that watching the children’s excitement reminded him of his own childhood dreams of becoming a professional hockey player.
As a father, he enjoys supporting Maxton’s development without placing excessive pressure on him to follow the same professional path.
Dmitry Kulikov’s Daughter: Evelina Kulikova
Evelina Kulikova is Dmitry and Emelie’s youngest child. She was born on October 7, 2019, while her father was playing for the Winnipeg Jets.
Her birth expanded the family to four members.
On October 8, 2019, Russian sports publication Sports.ru reported that Emelie had announced the arrival of their second child through Instagram.
Although Evelina occasionally appears in family photographs and public celebrations, her parents generally protect the details of her everyday life.
She has accompanied her family to important NHL events, including celebrations honoring her father’s professional achievements.
Dmitry Kulikov’s Children Celebrate His 1,000th NHL Game
One of the most memorable family moments occurred on February 2, 2025, when the Florida Panthers honored Kulikov for reaching 1,000 career NHL regular-season games.
The ceremony took place before Florida’s game against the New York Islanders at Amerant Bank Arena.
Kulikov was joined on the ice by his wife, Emelie, and their children, Maxton and Evelina.
The Panthers presented him with a commemorative silver hockey stick in recognition of the milestone.
His children received miniature silver sticks as keepsakes.
The ceremony provided an opportunity for the family to celebrate the years of dedication required to reach such an important NHL achievement.
How Fatherhood Has Influenced Dmitry Kulikov
Becoming a father has significantly influenced Kulikov’s perspective on hockey and life.
During a June 2025 interview with the Miami Herald, Kulikov explained that his children had become the center of his world.
He emphasized that spending time with them was more important than having additional personal free time.
The defenseman also discussed how raising children helped him appreciate the importance of family activities and creating positive memories.
His experiences as a father have strengthened his connection to the South Florida hockey community, particularly through Maxton’s involvement in youth hockey.
Dmitry Kulikov’s Parents: Meet His Father and Mother
Dmitry Kulikov was born to Vladimir Kulikov and Irina Kulikova in Lipetsk, Russia.
His parents raised Dmitry alongside his twin sister, Alina, and encouraged both children to participate in skating activities.
His father had a background in competitive hockey, while his mother remained an important source of emotional encouragement throughout his development.
Dmitry Kulikov’s Father: Vladimir Kulikov
Vladimir Nikolayevich Kulikov is Dmitry Kulikov’s father and a former Russian ice hockey player.
He previously played for Traktor Lipetsk, a hockey organization in his hometown.
Vladimir introduced his children to skating when they were approximately three years old.
According to an interview with Dmitry’s former coaches published by Sports School No. 11 in Lipetsk in June 2024, Vladimir was heavily involved in supporting his son’s early hockey development.
He regularly attended practices and assisted the coaching staff.
The family’s interest in winter sports meant that Dmitry and his twin sister were introduced to the ice at an early age.
Initially, both children participated in figure skating.
However, Dmitry eventually decided to focus on ice hockey, while Alina continued developing her figure skating abilities.
How Vladimir Kulikov Helped His Son Become an NHL Player
Vladimir played a particularly important role during Dmitry’s early competitive years.
Dmitry began playing organized hockey in Lipetsk under coach Yuri Krovopuskov.
His father regularly accompanied him to practices and tournaments, helping him develop discipline and confidence.
Krovopuskov later recalled that Vladimir traveled throughout Russia with the young player as he pursued increasingly competitive hockey opportunities.
When Dmitry moved to Yaroslavl to continue his training, Vladimir helped him make the transition.
The experience required considerable family support because Dmitry was still young and was moving away from his hometown.
Another former coach, Khalim Mingaleyev, also confirmed that Vladimir had played hockey and remained closely involved in his son’s development.
The family’s commitment eventually contributed to Dmitry reaching the NHL in 2009.
Dmitry Kulikov’s Mother: Irina Kulikova
Irina Vyacheslavovna Kulikova is Dmitry Kulikov’s mother.
She supported her son’s sporting ambitions from childhood and remained closely involved throughout his professional development.
According to an interview Dmitry gave to Sports.ru in May 2011, Irina originally wanted both her children to participate in figure skating.
She believed skating was a suitable activity for Dmitry and his twin sister, Alina.
Although Dmitry eventually chose hockey, the experience helped him develop skating skills that became important to his career as a defenseman.
Irina continued encouraging her son after he moved away from Lipetsk to pursue professional hockey.
Irina Kulikova’s Reaction to Dmitry’s Stanley Cup Victory
One of the most emotional moments for Irina occurred in June 2024, when the Florida Panthers won their first Stanley Cup championship.
Following Florida’s Game 7 victory over the Edmonton Oilers on June 24, Irina spoke to Russian television channel Match TV.
She revealed that she had encouraged her son before the decisive game and wanted him to enjoy the experience without becoming overwhelmed by pressure.
After Florida secured the championship, she expressed tremendous pride in his achievement.
In December 2024, Irina participated in a special hockey event in Lipetsk honoring Dmitry’s Stanley Cup success.
The event brought together young hockey players, coaches, and local sporting officials.
Irina attended as an honored guest, helping celebrate her son’s achievements with the community where his hockey journey began.
Her continued involvement demonstrates the close relationship she maintains with Dmitry despite his long professional career in North America.
Dmitry Kulikov’s Siblings: Does He Have a Brother or Sister?
Dmitry Kulikov has a twin sister named Alina Kulikova. Both were born on October 29, 1990, in Lipetsk, Russia.
Although Dmitry pursued professional hockey, Alina developed an interest in figure skating.
Dmitry Kulikov’s Twin Sister: Alina Kulikova
Alina Kulikova is Dmitry’s twin sister and one of the most important people in his childhood.
The siblings began skating together when they were approximately three or four years old.
According to coaches interviewed by Lipetsk Sports School No. 11 in June 2024, both children initially participated in skating activities at the same sports school.
Alina continued training as a figure skater while Dmitry eventually transferred to organized ice hockey.
Former coach Khalim Mingaleyev described Alina as a talented figure skater.
Although she pursued competitive skating, there is insufficient reliable public information to establish that she achieved a professional international figure skating career.
Dmitry and Alina Kulikov’s Childhood
Dmitry and Alina spent their early childhood together in Lipetsk, where skating became an important family activity.
In a May 2011 interview, Dmitry recalled that their mother initially enrolled both children in figure skating classes.
He explained that he stayed in the program only briefly before moving into hockey.
As their sporting abilities developed, the twins eventually left Lipetsk to train in different cities.
The separation made it more difficult for them to spend time together, although they continued maintaining a close family relationship.
Alina remained interested in her brother’s achievements and supported his ambitions of reaching the NHL.
According to Dmitry, she was particularly excited when the Florida Panthers selected him in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft.
Alina Kulikova’s Marriage to Anton Korolev
Alina has also been connected to professional hockey through her marriage to Russian ice hockey forward Anton Korolev.
According to Sports.ru, Alina and Anton attended Dmitry’s wedding to Emelie Olsson in Sweden in July 2015.
At the time, Korolev was playing professional hockey in Russia, including with Vityaz.
Although the marriage was publicly reported in 2015, further reliable information about their current relationship status remains limited.
Does Dmitry Kulikov Have a Brother?
There is no reliable public confirmation that Dmitry Kulikov has a brother.
Available family biographies and interviews consistently identify his twin sister, Alina, but do not establish the existence of additional siblings.
Dmitry Kulikov’s Family Background and Early Life
Dmitry Vladimirovich Kulikov was born on October 29, 1990, in Lipetsk, Russia.
Growing up in a family connected to winter sports, he began skating alongside his twin sister at a young age.
After switching from figure skating to hockey, Dmitry joined the youth program at Sports School No. 11 in Lipetsk.
He initially played as a center before eventually transitioning to defense.
His family supported his development as he moved between different Russian hockey programs, including opportunities in Yaroslavl and Moscow.
He later joined Lokomotiv Yaroslavl’s junior system before moving to Canada in 2008.
In North America, Kulikov played for the Drummondville Voltigeurs in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League.
During the 2008–09 season, he recorded 62 points in 57 games and earned recognition as one of the league’s leading defensemen.
The Florida Panthers selected him in the first round, 14th overall, of the 2009 NHL Entry Draft.
He made his NHL debut on October 2, 2009, against the Chicago Blackhawks.
Over the following years, Kulikov developed into an experienced defenseman known for his physicality, defensive awareness, and ability to contribute in important situations.
He played for eight NHL organizations before returning to the Florida Panthers in July 2023.
His return proved successful as he helped Florida win the Stanley Cup in 2024 and 2025.
Dmitry Kulikov’s Family and Stanley Cup Celebrations
Kulikov’s Stanley Cup victories created several memorable experiences for his family.
On June 24, 2024, he helped Florida defeat Edmonton in Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final.
During the decisive game, Kulikov made a crucial defensive play that contributed to the sequence leading to Sam Reinhart’s championship-winning goal.
The victory was particularly meaningful because Kulikov had originally joined the Panthers as an 18-year-old rookie in 2009.
After years of playing for different teams, he returned to Florida and helped the organization win its first championship.
On August 25, 2024, Kulikov celebrated his personal day with the Stanley Cup.
He brought the trophy to the Panthers’ practice facility in Fort Lauderdale so young hockey players could see it.
The event was especially meaningful because his son Maxton participated in the local youth hockey program.
Later that day, he celebrated with family members and friends during a boat outing and private dinner.
In June 2025, Kulikov helped Florida win another Stanley Cup, becoming a two-time champion.
The championship provided another opportunity to celebrate with Emelie and their children.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dmitry Kulikov’s Family
Who is Dmitry Kulikov’s wife?
Dmitry Kulikov is married to Emelie Kulikova, formerly Emelie Olsson. She is Swedish, and the couple married in July 2015.
Does Dmitry Kulikov have a girlfriend?
Dmitry Kulikov is married to his longtime partner, Emelie Olsson, rather than publicly known to be dating a girlfriend.
When did Dmitry Kulikov get married?
He married Emelie Olsson in early July 2015 at Krägga Herrgård, a historic hotel near Stockholm, Sweden.
How many children does Dmitry Kulikov have?
Dmitry Kulikov has two publicly confirmed children with his wife, Emelie: a son named Maxton and a daughter named Evelina.
Who is Dmitry Kulikov’s son?
His son is Maxton Kulikov, born on April 28, 2017. Maxton plays youth hockey with the Jr. Panthers program in South Florida.
Who is Dmitry Kulikov’s daughter?
His daughter is Evelina Kulikova, born on October 7, 2019.
Who is Dmitry Kulikov’s father?
His father is Vladimir Kulikov, a former Russian hockey player who helped develop Dmitry’s skating and hockey skills during childhood.
Who is Dmitry Kulikov’s mother?
His mother is Irina Kulikova, who encouraged his early skating activities and supported his professional career.
Does Dmitry Kulikov have siblings?
Yes. He has a twin sister named Alina Kulikova, who pursued figure skating during her youth.
Is Alina Kulikova related to Dmitry Kulikov?
Yes. Alina Kulikova is Dmitry’s twin sister. They were born on October 29, 1990, in Lipetsk, Russia.
Does Dmitry Kulikov have a brother?
No brother has been publicly confirmed. Available family reports identify his twin sister, Alina.
Where is Dmitry Kulikov from?
Dmitry Kulikov was born and raised in Lipetsk, Russia, where he began playing hockey as a child.
Which NHL team does Dmitry Kulikov play for?
Dmitry Kulikov plays for the Florida Panthers, the organization that originally drafted him in 2009.
How many Stanley Cups has Dmitry Kulikov won?
Dmitry Kulikov has won two Stanley Cup championships with the Florida Panthers, in 2024 and 2025.
Living and breathing ice hockey, Bernald Sanders delivers comprehensive coverage of the NHL season from puck drop to the Stanley Cup Finals. He specializes in tactical breakdowns, trade analysis, power-play strategies, and tracking rising draft prospects. Bernald turns fast-paced on-ice action into clear, sharp insights for hockey fans around the globe.
