Eric Staal signs 1-day contract with Hurricanes, retires

Field Level Media|published: Tue 30th July, 13:32 2024

Jun 2, 2023; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Florida Panthers center Eric Staal (12) takes questions during media day in advance of the 2023 Stanley Cup Final. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports

Forward Eric Staal signed a one-day contract on Tuesday to retire with the Carolina Hurricanes.

The Hurricanes promptly announced they will retire Staal's No. 12 at a yet-to-be determined date during the 2024-25 season.

No Hurricane will ever wear No. 12 again pic.twitter.com/3IY1M3UTVj
— Carolina Hurricanes (@Canes) July 30, 2024

A Stanley Cup champion with Carolina in 2005-06, Staal served as an alternate captain with the Hurricanes from 2007-09 before being named the 13th captain in franchise history on Jan. 20, 2010.

"I want to thank my family, former teammates, coaches and staff members who played a role in helping me live my dream, playing in the NHL," Staal said. "I will forever treasure the memories and friendships made during my 18 years in the world's best league."

"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. 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, ranks second in franchise history (Hartford and Carolina) in goals (322), assists (453) and points (775) -- behind Hall of Famer Ron Francis (382, 793, 1,175). He played in 909 games with the franchise, trailing only Francis (1,186) and Glen Wesley (913).

"Eric is a uniquely central figure in franchise history," Hurricanes general manager Eric Tulsky said. "Throughout his time in the Triangle, he made an immeasurable impact on his teammates, the organization and the community. We look forward to raising number 12 to the rafters and celebrating the career of a man who has meant so much to hockey fans in North Carolina."

Staal has totaled 1,063 points (455 goals, 608 assists) in 1,365 career games with the Hurricanes, New York Rangers, Minnesota Wild, Buffalo Sabres, Montreal Canadiens and Florida Panthers.

--Field Level Media

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