Defenseman Marc Staal announced his retirement from the NHL on Thursday after 17 seasons and has joined the New York Rangers as a player development assistant. In his new role, Staal will work closely with defensemen throughout the organization.
Staal’s retirement comes about a month after his older brother, Eric, retired following an 18-season NHL career. Marc Staal, 37, spent his first 13 seasons with the Rangers, who selected him 12th overall in the 2005 NHL Draft.
Staal’s 892 games with the Rangers rank sixth in franchise history, behind Hall of Famers Harry Howell (1,160), Brian Leetch (1,129), and Rod Gilbert (1,065), as well as Ron Greschner (981) and Walt Tkaczuk (945). “Congratulations Marc on a great career!” the Rangers posted on social media. “Thrilled to have you back and excited for your next chapter as #NYR Player Development Assistant.”
Last season, Staal recorded five points (one goal, four assists) in 35 games with the Philadelphia Flyers. Over his career, he tallied 234 points (53 goals, 181 assists) in 1,136 games with the Rangers, Detroit Red Wings, Florida Panthers, and Flyers, and added 20 points (seven goals, 13 assists) in 128 playoff games.
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