Eric Staal Announces Retirement After Storied 18-Season NHL Career
In a touching moment for hockey fans, former NHL all-star Eric Staal has announced his retirement from professional hockey after an illustrious 18-season career. The Carolina Hurricanes, the team where Staal spent the majority of his career, honored the veteran player with a ceremonial one-day contract to make his retirement official.
Eric Staal’s journey in the NHL began when he was drafted second overall by the Carolina Hurricanes in the 2003 NHL Draft. From his debut, it was clear that Staal possessed unparalleled talent and leadership. He quickly became a pivotal figure for the Hurricanes, leading them to their first Stanley Cup victory during the 2005-06 season. That year, Staal recorded an impressive 45 goals and 55 assists, achieving the only 100-point season in Carolina’s history—a milestone that underscored his value to the team.
Reflecting on his time with the Hurricanes, Staal expressed deep gratitude. “From the time I arrived in Raleigh at 18 years old and throughout my 12 years there, I felt the love and support of the fans and organization in a way that will always feel special to me. There was no doubt in my mind that when it became time to hang up my skates, I would want to retire as a Carolina Hurricane. To now also know that the team is retiring my No. 12 is truly humbling and I am extremely grateful and honored,” Staal said.
Staal’s contributions to the Hurricanes are not only measured by his points and goals but also by his leadership and presence on the ice. He set several franchise records, including most goals (322), assists (453), points (775), games played (909), power-play goals (105), power-play points (252), and hat tricks (13). His influence extended beyond his statistics, making an immeasurable impact on his teammates and the community.
Eric Tulsky, Carolina's general manager, spoke highly of Staal’s significance to the franchise: “Eric is a uniquely central figure in franchise history. Throughout his time in the Triangle, he made an immeasurable impact on his teammates, the organization, and the community. We look forward to raising No. 12 to the rafters and celebrating the career of a man who has meant so much to hockey fans in North Carolina.”
After leaving the Hurricanes, Staal continued to make his mark in the NHL, playing for the New York Rangers, Minnesota Wild, Buffalo Sabres, Montreal Canadiens, and Florida Panthers. His final NHL season was with the Panthers during the 2022-23 campaign. Despite moving from team to team, Staal’s performance never wavered, earning him six NHL All-Star Game appearances and MVP honors in the 2008 All-Star Game.
Staal’s storied career is also a family affair; his younger brother, Jordan Staal, currently serves as the captain of the Hurricanes. This familial connection adds another layer of emotional depth to Eric Staal’s legacy with the Carolina Hurricanes.
With career totals of 455 goals and 608 assists over 1,365 games, Staal’s retirement marks the end of an era for many hockey fans. His on-ice achievements, coupled with his leadership and sportsmanship, ensure that his legacy will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.
As the hockey world bids farewell to one of its stalwarts, the upcoming jersey retirement ceremony for Eric Staal's No. 12 will serve as a fitting tribute to a player who has left an indelible mark on the sport. Both fans and the Carolina Hurricanes organization look forward to celebrating the career of a man who has defined excellence on and off the ice.