Sad News: Stars Officially Announced the Release of Another Experienced Veteran Star Player as He Told Team that He Wants to Leave Due to…

Longtime NHL defenseman Alex Goligoski has officially retired after 17 seasons, concluding a distinguished career with his hometown team, the Minnesota Wild. The 39-year-old confirmed his retirement amid ongoing rumors in an interview with The Athletic’s Joe Smith, where he discussed life after hockey, including the challenges of fatherhood and his newfound busyness.

Goligoski’s Illustrious Career Comes to a Close

Goligoski’s NHL journey saw him play for the Pittsburgh Penguins, Dallas Stars, Arizona Coyotes, and Minnesota Wild. Over 1,078 games, he notched 475 points, showcasing his enduring consistency. The defenseman began his career with the University of Minnesota’s Golden Gophers before being drafted by the Penguins. He joined Pittsburgh in the 2007-2008 season and later contributed to their 2009 Stanley Cup championship during his first full season with the team.

Following his championship run with Pittsburgh, Goligoski spent over five seasons with the Dallas Stars before embarking on a long tenure with the Arizona Coyotes. In 2021, he signed with the Minnesota Wild, initially on a one-year, $5 million contract, followed by a two-year, $4 million extension.

His most consistent stretch came between 2013 and 2017, where he played full seasons of 81 and 82 games, cementing his reputation as a reliable defenseman.

https://x.com/JoeSmithNHL/status/1831709754013729068?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1831709754013729068%7Ctwgr%5E175e089eeaefba621ec6b95a5383d8c75f3ae4fe%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Flastwordonsports.com%2Fhockey%2F2024%2F09%2F05%2Flongtime-defenseman-retires%2F

What Goligoski’s Retirement Means for the Wild

Goligoski’s retirement leaves the Wild without a veteran presence on the blue line. His experience and leadership were valuable assets, even as his playing time diminished toward the end of his career. The Wild may look to depth defenseman Zach Bogosian to fill the leadership void, though Goligoski’s durability and production during his peak years will be missed.

As Goligoski transitions to life after hockey, his contributions to the teams he played for, particularly the Stars and the Wild, will be remembered fondly.