Toronto Maple Leafs striker Jason Spezza today announced his retirement from the National Hockey League after 19 seasons. With his announcement, Spezza will join the Maple Leafs reception as Special Assistant to General Manager Kyle Dubas with immediate effect.
“It’s hard to describe the positive and lasting impact Jason Spezza had on his three seasons with the Maple Leafs,” said general manager Kyle Dubas. “Jason’s passion for the game of hockey, his desire to continually push himself and his teammates to improve, as well as his ability to establish strong connections with all members of the organization, have been invaluable. Although today marks the end of his tenure as a player, it is a pleasure to have him in our main office to deliver everything he has to offer. ” Spezza, 38, recorded 995 points (363G, 632A) in 1,248 NHL regular-season games between the Maple Leafs, Dallas Stars and Ottawa Senators while picking up 76 points (28G, 48A) in 97 NHL games. Stanley Cup Playoff. The two-time NHL All-Star (2008, 2012) is among the top 100 on the NHL all-time list for games played (t-96), assists (80) and points (94). In addition to serving as the eighth captain in the history of the Senators franchise, Spezza ranks sixth in club games played (686) and second in goals (251), assists (436) and points (687) during his 11 seasons in Ottawa. . Internationally, Spezza has represented Canada at the IIHF World Championships four times (2008, 2009, 2011, 2015), at the IIHF Junior World Championships three times (2000, 2001, 2002) and at the World Cup. Spengler in 2012. Spezza won a gold (2015). ) and two silver medals (2008, 2009) at the IIHF World Championships and won one silver (2002) and two bronze medals (2000, 2001) at the IIHF Junior World Championships. He also won the 2012 Spengler Cup with the Canadian team. Spezza was originally selected by Ottawa in the first round (2nd overall) of the 2001 NHL Draft. Statement by Jason Spezza: “I’ve loved hockey. and do what I love for so many years, ”Spezza said. “I eat, sleep, dream hockey and it’s always been there for me. There are too many people to thank individually, but I’m eternally grateful and indebted to the Ottawa Senators, Dallas Stars, Toronto Maple Leafs and Hockey Canada for their support and Believe me as a player and as a person, a heartfelt thank you to all my teammates, coaches, support staff, coaches and staff, for countless hours on the court, whether at the ice or with those behind the scenes, I’ve been lucky enough to have forged lifelong friendships.Hockey has been the work of my life and being able to return home to Toronto and finish my playing career “It started out amazing. For fans: in Ottawa, Dallas, Toronto and the whole league.” “Your impact on the game is immeasurable. something I will always remember.Thanks.Looking forward, I am very grateful to the s Leafs for the incredible op transition to this new feature. It allows me to continue my passion; learn and live new experiences within the game I love. Finally, none of this happens without the unwavering support of my parents, siblings, wife, and children. You’ve always been my cornerstone. “