Cal Clutterbuck Announces Retirement After 17 NHL Seasons

ELMONT, N.Y. — Cal Clutterbuck, the NHL‘s all-time hits leader, announced his retirement from professional hockey on Wednesday through an Instagram post. The 37-year-old forward did not play during the 2024-25 season but has left a significant mark on the game over his 17-year career.

Clutterbuck, who recorded a remarkable 4,029 hits, played 1,064 regular-season games and scored 293 points, including 143 goals and 150 assists. He also contributed 20 points in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, with 12 goals and eight assists over 81 games.

“After 17 years, it’s time to hang up the skates,” Clutterbuck wrote. “I’m beyond grateful for every teammate, coach, fan, and moment along the way. Hockey gave me everything — a purpose, a brotherhood, and a lifetime of memories.”

Throughout his career, Clutterbuck was known for his physical style of play, becoming a fan favorite during his time with the Minnesota Wild and New York Islanders. He began his career when the Wild drafted him in the third round of the 2006 NHL Draft.

Clutterbuck later joined the Islanders on June 30, 2013, in a trade that sent Nino Niederreiter to Minnesota. He formed a notable line with teammates Matt Martin and Casey Cizikas, becoming a crucial part of the team’s identity.

“To Matt and Casey, it was an honor to go to war with you night in and night out,” Clutterbuck expressed. “What we built together means more than words can say. And to the Islanders faithful — your passion, loyalty, and love made Long Island home. Thank you all. On to the next chapter.”

During his time in the NHL, Clutterbuck led the league in hits three times and set a single-season record with 356 hits in the 2008-09 season. He leaves the league with a record that stands 93 hits above Martin, who is in second place on the all-time hits list.

Clutterbuck finished his last season in 2023-24 by playing all 82 games and recording 19 points. His dedication to the game and physical play has left a lasting legacy in the NHL as he moves on to the next phase of his life.