Eric Staal, the former NHL all-star, has officially announced his retirement after an illustrious 18-season career. The Carolina Hurricanes, the team that originally drafted him No. 2 overall in 2003 and with whom he won a Stanley Cup three years later, revealed that Staal had signed a one-day contract to retire as a member of the organization. The Hurricanes also announced that they will be retiring Staal’s iconic No. 12 jersey in the upcoming season.
In a heartfelt statement, Staal expressed his gratitude towards the organization and the fans who supported him throughout his career. He stated, “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… To now also know that the team is retiring my No. 12 is truly humbling and I am extremely grateful and honored.”
During his career, Staal amassed an impressive 455 goals and 608 assists in 1,365 games while playing for teams such as the New York Rangers, Minnesota, Buffalo, Montreal, and Florida. His final game was in the Stanley Cup Final with the Panthers in the 2022-23 season.
Staal’s impact on the Hurricanes was undeniable, as he holds multiple franchise records since the team’s relocation from Hartford to North Carolina in 1997. Notably, he set records for most goals, assists, points, games played, power-play goals, power-play points, and hat tricks. Staal made a quick impression in Carolina with his outstanding performance in the 2005-06 season, where he scored 45 goals and 55 assists, becoming the only player to achieve a 100-point season in Hurricanes history.
Carolina general manager Eric Tulsky praised Staal’s contributions to the team, stating, “Eric is a uniquely central figure in franchise history… 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.”
Staal’s brother, Jordan Staal, currently serves as the captain of the Hurricanes, creating a family legacy within the organization. With Staal’s retirement, the NHL bids farewell to a legendary player who left an indelible mark on the sport.