Stanley Cup champion calls it quits on his career by officially retiring

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Daniel Lucente
September 19, 2024 (2:12 PM)

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Kyle Okposo has officially announced his retirement from the NHL after he had just won the Stanley Cup in June with the Florida Panthers.

Kyle Okposo played 17 seasons in the National Hockey League. Drafted seventh overall by the New York Islanders in 2006, the 36-year-old forward leaves behind an impressive legacy, having played 1,051 regular-season games and tallied 242 goals and 614 points. He finished off his career in style, capturing his first Stanley Cup in his final game as a Florida Panther. NHL insider Elliotte Friedman broke the news.

Okposo spent the majority of his career with the Islanders, skating in 529 regular-season games with the team. An alternate captain for seven seasons, his best campaign came in 2013-14 when he posted career highs of 27 goals and 69 points. Okposo did play only 24 playoff games with the Islanders, with seven goals and 15 points recorded. Despite their struggles, he was a loved leader because of his grit. He made a lasting mark on the franchise before leaving to sign a seven-year, $42 million deal with the Sabres in 2016.

While Okposo isn't the flashiest superstar, he is a hard worker, and his leadership makes him a fan favorite wherever he plays. He might pop up in management or coaching down the road as he heads into this next chapter of his life, and it wouldn't be surprising to hear his name being thrown out again.

Happy retirement Kyle!

Source: NHL.com
Kyle Okposo Stats