Young former Montreal Canadiens goaltender announces retirement from NHL

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Daniel Lucente
August 1, 2024 (2:05 PM)

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A former goaltender of the Montreal Canadiens has decided to call it quits in the NHL at the young age of 27 and retire.

McNiven played seven seasons professionally in North America, and also went to France for a little while. He began his career with the Montreal Canadiens when he signed an entry-level contract in 2015 as an undrafted free agent. Following his five seasons with the Habs, he was traded to the Calgary Flames in 2022 for future considerations. After only 19 days, they shipped him to the Ottawa Senators, also for future considerations.

McNiven is not leaving the sport altogether, as he's just signed a contract to become the assistant coach of the Powell River Kings in the BCHL.

We are thrilled to announce the hirings of Christopher Klack and Michael McNiven as assistant coaches!

"My goal is to create an environment where our players have the best possible chance to succeed both mentally and physically." says McNiven "Having played in all three levels of professional hockey in North America, I am well versed in the demands and challenges our team will face. I am committed to bringing my utmost effort and expertise to win a Fred Page Cup."

McNiven only played in one ever NHL game in all seven professional seasons, and it was an ugly one. He came in relief to start the third period when Canadiens Cayden Primeau was pulled. McNiven allowed three goals on only seven shots as the Habs got blown out 8 to 2.

Source: Blades of Steel
Former Canadiens goaltender announces retirement at 27-years-old