Joe Pavelski, a veteran of 18 NHL seasons, announced his retirement after playing 1,533 games without winning the Stanley Cup. The 39-year-old forward concluded his fifth season with the Dallas Stars and disclosed his decision following the team's loss in the Western Conference final.
Pavelski, who will turn 40 next month, expressed his gratitude towards the Stars organization and his teammates. Stars general manager Jim Nill praised Pavelski for his professionalism both on and off the ice, highlighting his positive impact on the franchise.
The Wisconsin native, known for his scoring prowess, tallied 476 goals and 592 assists in 1,332 regular-season games. His 74 playoff goals are the most by a U.S.-born player and ranked highest among active players. Despite reaching the Stanley Cup Final in 2020 with Dallas and in 2016 with San Jose, Pavelski never captured the coveted championship.
Pavelski, a seventh-round pick by the Sharks in the 2003 draft, made his NHL debut in the 2006-07 season. He concluded his career as the fifth-highest active goal scorer and seventh in total points, amassing 1,068 points over his illustrious career.
During the recent playoffs, Pavelski became the 25th player in NHL history to reach 200 postseason games, finishing with 201 appearances. Despite his remarkable playoff contributions, including one goal in 19 games this postseason, Pavelski retires without a Stanley Cup title.
Throughout his career, Pavelski was lauded for his leadership, work ethic, and dedication to the game. His impact on and off the ice will be remembered by fans and teammates alike as he bids farewell to professional hockey.
Sources: AP NHL playoffs and AP NHL
