Eric Staal Retires After 18 Seasons, Carolina Hurricanes to Retire His No. 12 Jersey

Former NHL all-star Eric Staal announced his retirement after an illustrious 18-season career.

The Carolina Hurricanes, the team that drafted him No. 2 overall in 2003, celebrated his retirement by signing him to a one-day contract, allowing him to retire as a member of the organization.

Staal, who won a Stanley Cup with the Hurricanes three years after being drafted, will have his No. 12 jersey retired by the team in the upcoming season.

“From the time I arrived in Raleigh at 18 years old and throughout my 12 years there, I felt the love and support of the fans and organization in a way that will always feel special to me," Staal stated.

"There was no doubt in my mind that when it became time to hang up my skates, I would want to retire as a Carolina Hurricane. To now also know that the team is retiring my No. 12 is truly humbling and I am extremely grateful and honored.”

Staal, 39, had a remarkable career, recording 455 goals and 608 assists over 1,365 games with stints at the New York Rangers, Minnesota, Buffalo, Montreal, and Florida.

He last played for the Panthers in the 2022-23 season, ending his career in the Stanley Cup Final.

A six-time NHL All-Star, Staal earned MVP honours in 2008.

Eric Staal has signed a one-day contract and will officially retire as a member of the Hurricanes 👏

The #Canes will also retire his number 12 at a to-be-determined date during the 2024-25 season.

Details » https://t.co/2xjEFUBJaJ pic.twitter.com/ERvqpPdY9t

— Carolina Hurricanes (@Canes) July 30, 2024

He quickly made his mark in Carolina with a 100-point season in 2005-06, the only one in the team's history, leading to a Stanley Cup victory that year.

He holds franchise records 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 Staal, currently serves as Carolina’s captain.

“Eric is a uniquely central figure in franchise history,” said Carolina general manager Eric Tulsky.

“Throughout his time in the Triangle, he made an immeasurable impact on his teammates, the organization, and the community. We look forward to raising No. 12 to the rafters and celebrating the career of a man who has meant so much to hockey fans in North Carolina.”