Goaltender Jaroslav Halak is formally hanging up the skates. On Friday, the 40-year-old introduced his retirement after 17 seasons within the NHL.

Halak’s final recreation was in 2023 as a member of the New York Rangers. He was then with the Carolina Hurricanes on an expert tryout throughout the 2023-2024 season, however was launched and by no means competed in a recreation.

“Final yr I accomplished summer season coaching … however when nothing got here of it, I informed myself it was pointless. After that I did not even strive anymore,” Halak informed Slovakia’s Dennik Sport, per a translation. “I am formally ending my profession. I want to thank my household, pals, followers and particularly my spouse Petra, who has been by my aspect my complete profession.”

Halak was a ninth spherical draft decide within the 2004 NHL Entry Draft by the Montreal Canadiens, enjoying with them for 4 years. He then performed for the St. Louis Blues, Washington Capitals, New York Islanders, Boston Bruins, Vancouver Canucks and eventually the Rangers.

In whole, he is performed in 581 NHL video games, 555 begins, with a 295-189-69 report, 53 shutouts, a .915 save proportion and a 2.50 goals-against common. 

“It has been two years, and I’ve come to phrases with not reaching 300 [wins],” the two-time William M. Jennings Trophy winner stated. “Trying again on my profession, it has been an excellent one. It could have been nicer with 300 wins, however I will be proud of 295.”

Halak performed for Slovakia on the Olympics in 2010 and 2014 and in 2016 helped lead Staff Europe to the championship recreation on the World Cup of Hockey.