By Mark Bergin, WRAL senior multiplatform producer

Raleigh, N.C. — Eric Staal, who played forward and captained the Carolina Hurricanes, announced his retirement from the NHL.

The Hurricanes plan to retire Staal’s No. 12 jersey during the 2024-25 season, according to a news release posted on the team website. The team has not announced the date of the retirement ceremony.

“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, signed a ceremonial one-day contract to retire with the Hurricanes, where he played 12 out of his 18 NHL seasons.

“Eric is a uniquely central figure in franchise history,” said Canes 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 number 12 to the rafters and celebrating the career of a man who has meant so much to hockey fans in North Carolina.”

Staal will be the fourth Hurricanes/Whalers player to have his number retired, joining Glen Wesley (2), Ron Francis (10) and current Hurricanes coach Rod Brind’Amour (17).

Staal ranks first in Canes history (since relocation) in goals (322), assists (453), points (775), games played (909), power-play goals (105), power-play points (252) and hat tricks (13).

Staal is the only player in franchise history to represent the Hurricanes/Whalers at four consecutive NHL All-Star Games (2007-09, 2011), earning All-Star MVP honors in 2008. He played in the NHL All-Star Game six times, and he was Hurricanes captain for seven seasons (2009-16).

Staal had 1,063 points (455 goals, 608 assists) in 1,365 games in 18 seasons with the Hurricanes, New York Rangers, Minnesota Wild, Buffalo Sabres, Montreal Canadiens and Panthers, and 64 points (25 goals, 39 assists) in 104 playoff games.

Staal is a member of the Triple Gold Club, having won the Stanley Cup with the Hurricanes in 2006, and both the 2007 World Championships and the 2010 Winter Olympics with Team Canada.

The Canes drafted Staal with the second overall pick in the 2003 NHL Draft. He played for the Hurricanes from 2003-2016.

In February 2016, the Canes traded Staal to the New York Rangers in exchange for Aleksi Saarela and two second-round draft picks.

In the 2016 offseason, Staal signed a contract with the Minesota Wild. He played for the Wild from 2016-2020. He also played for the Buffalo Sabers from 2020-21, the Montreal Canadiens in 2021 and for the Florida Panthers in 2022-23.

Source: wralsportsfan.com