Ottawa Senators defenseman Jason Smith announced his retirement today after 1,008 career regular-season games in the NHL.
Smith, 35, spent his career with the New Jersey Devils, Toronto Maple Leafs, Edmonton Oilers, Philadelphia Flyers and Senators.
"I have been fortunate to have played in the NHL for 16 years. I have played alongside many great teammates and for organizations that I was proud to have been a part of," said Smith. "I would like to thank all of my teammates, owners, coaches, managers and staff that I have had the privilege of working with through the years and would like to recognize the fans for their tremendous support.
"It has been an honor and a privilege for me to have played in over 1,000 career National Hockey League games, and I would especially like to thank my wife, Wendy, my daughters, Britney and Jordan, my mother and father, my brother and sister, and my many loyal friends for their support through the ups and downs, and for always being there for me.”
The Calgary native signed with the Senators as a free agent on July 8, 2008.
"From his first NHL game with the New Jersey Devils on Oct. 8, 1993, to his 1,008th with the Senators on March 9, 2009, Jason has been dedicated to his team and teammates. He is a warrior, a fierce competitor and a team leader," said Senators GM Bryan Murray. "Jason is everything that a general manager, coach and teammate wants in a player and he has shown that throughout his career. Jason may have only played one season for the Senators, but he left his mark on the game here as he has done across the NHL."
