Former NHL star Eric Staal is retiring after 18 seasons.
The Carolina Hurricanes announced Tuesday that Staal has signed a one-day contract to retire as a member of the organization that originally drafted him second overall in 2003 and won a Stanley Cup with him three years later.
The Hurricanes said they will retire Staal’s No. 12 jersey next season.
“Since arriving in Raleigh at age 18 and throughout my 12 years there, I have felt the love and support from the fans and organization in a way that will always be special to me,” Staal said in a statement. I had no doubt that when it came time to hang up my skates, I would want to retire as a Carolina Hurricane. Knowing now also that the team is retiring my number 12 is truly humbling and I am extremely grateful and honored.”
Staal, 39, scored 455 goals and 608 assists in 1,365 games in a career that included stints with the New York Rangers, Minnesota, Buffalo, Montreal and Florida. Staal last played for the Panthers in the 2022-23 season, with his final game being in the Stanley Cup Final.
Staal played in six NHL All-Star Games, earning MVP honors in 2008.
Staal made a quick mark in Carolina with 45 goals and 55 assists in his second NHL season, the only 100-point season in Carolina history in 2005-06. That team, captained by current Carolina coach Rod Brind’Amour, won the Cup – with Staal assisting on Justin Williams’ decisive empty-net goal in Game 7 against Edmonton.
Staal holds franchise records since the former Hartford Whalers moved to North Carolina in 1997 for most goals (322), assists (453), points (775), games played (909, power-play goals (105 ), power-play points (252) and hat tricks (13).
His brother, Jordan, is Carolina’s current captain.
“Eric is a central and unique figure in franchise history,” said Carolina general manager Eric Tulsky. “Throughout his time in the Triangle, he has made an immeasurable impact on his teammates, the organization and the community. We look forward to raising #12 to the rafters and celebrating the career of a man who meant so much to North Carolina hockey fans.”
