Jaroslav Halak Hangs Up the Skates After 17 Seasons in the NHL
Goaltender Jaroslav Halak officially announced his retirement from the NHL this Friday, ending a 17-season career in the league. His last game was more than two years ago. Halak, 40, last played on April 13, 2023 with the New York Rangers. Previously, he was with the Carolina Hurricanes during the 2023-24 season on a professional tryout, but was released before participating in a game.Halak, a two-time winner of the William M. Jennings Trophy, as the goaltender of the team that allowed the fewest goals in a season, recorded a record of 295-189-69 with 53 shutouts, a 2.50 goals-against average, and a .915 save percentage in 581 career games (555 as a starter). He played for the Montreal Canadiens, St. Louis Blues, Washington Capitals, New York Islanders, Boston Bruins, Vancouver Canucks, and Rangers.“Last year I completed the summer training… but when nothing came up, I told myself it didn’t make sense. After that, I didn’t even try anymore. I officially end my career. I would like to thank my family, friends, fans and especially my wife Petra, who has been by my side throughout my career,” Halak declared to the Slovakian media Dennik Sport.
Jaroslav Halak
Halak also represented his native Slovakia in the 2010 and 2014 Olympic Games, and led Team Europe to the final of the 2016 World Cup of Hockey.“Two years have passed, and I have accepted not reaching 300 wins. Looking back on my career, it has been good. It would have been better with 300 wins, but I am happy with 295,” added Halak.
Jaroslav Halak
