Kyle Okposo goes out a winner, announces retirement

Field Level Media|published: Thu 19th September, 12:57 2024

NHL: Stanley Cup Final-Edmonton Oilers at Florida Panthers

Jun 24, 2024; Sunrise, Florida, USA; Florida Panthers forward Kyle Okposo (8) hoists the Stanley Cup after defeating the Edmonton Oilers in game seven of the 2024 Stanley Cup Final at Amerant Bank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Veteran forward Kyle Okposo capped his career in style by helping the Florida Panthers win the Stanley Cup in June.

Three months later, Okposo announced his retirement from the NHL on Thursday after 17 seasons.

Okposo, 36, reflected on his career in an open letter distributed by CAA, which represents him.

"(Thirty) years of playing hockey was incredible," he wrote. "It brought me to some amazing places and provided such unique experiences. I believe the game is in a great place right now, but the possibilities are vast. I'm looking forward to continuing to contribute to the game as it reaches new heights."

Okposo had been held off the scoresheet in all six regular-season games with the Panthers. Florida acquired him on March 8 from the Buffalo Sabres, with whom he had 22 points (12 goals, 10 assists) in 61 games.

Okposo notched two assists in 17 playoff games to help the Panthers capture their first Stanley Cup in franchise history.

Okposo tallied 614 points (242 goals, 372 assists) in 1,051 career games with the New York Islanders (2007-16), Sabres (2016-24) and Panthers. The Islanders selected Okposo with the seventh overall pick in the 2006 NHL Draft.

--Field Level Media

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