July 18th, 2025, 11:46am
Goaltender Jaroslav Halak officially announced his retirement from the NHL after 17 seasons on Friday.
Harak, 40, last played the game against the New York Rangers on April 13, 2023. He then spent time with the Carolina Hurricanes early in the 2023-24 season with a professional tryout, but was released before he made it to the game.
“Last year I completed my summer training…but when it was nothing, I said it was pointless. After that, I wasn’t even trying anymore,” Harak told Denick Sports in Slovakia, according to the translation. “I’m officially finished my career and I want to thank my family, friends, fans, especially my wife Petra.
Harak, the two-time winner of William M. Jenningstrophy as the goalkeeper for the team that allowed the fewest goals of the season, posted a record of 295-189-69 with 53 shutouts, averaged 2.50 goals, 581 career games (555 start) and a save percentage of 295-189-69. He plays with the Montreal Canadiens, St. Louis Blues, Washington Capitals, New York Islanders, Boston Bruins, Vancouver Canucks and Rangers.
“It’s been two years and I’ve been working with something that’s not reaching 300 [wins]”Looking back on my career, it was good. I’d be happy with 300 wins, but I’m happy with 295.”
Harak also played in his home country of Slovakia at the 2010 and 2014 Olympics, leading Team Europe to the championship game at the 2016 World Cup.
