Veteran Defenseman Alec Martinez Announces Retirement Before Final NHL Game

CHICAGO — Alec Martinez, a 37-year-old defenseman for the Chicago Blackhawks and three-time Stanley Cup champion, announced he would be retiring from professional hockey shortly before Saturday’s game against the Winnipeg Jets at the United Center.

In a pre-game interview with Chicago Sports Network’s Darren Pang, Martinez expressed his emotions about the day, stating, “You’re going to make me tear up. I’ve got to get ready for a game but obviously a lot of different emotions today.” After reflecting on his career, he added, “Just very thankful, very appreciative. I have a lot of people, my family, a lot of people who helped me along the way in this game to get here.”

Martinez has played 43 games this season, recording 12 points with five goals and seven assists. He signed a one-year, $4 million contract with the Blackhawks last offseason, aiming to provide mentorship to a young roster.

He rose to prominence after being drafted in the fourth round (95th overall) by the Los Angeles Kings in the 2007 NHL Draft. Over his career, he accumulated 289 points on 88 goals and 201 assists across 861 regular season games with the Kings, Vegas Golden Knights, and Blackhawks. In addition to his regular season success, he tallied 37 points (14 goals, 23 assists) in 131 playoff games.

Martinez is notable for his significant contributions during the playoffs, including scoring the Cup-clinching goal in double overtime against the New York Rangers during Game 5 of the 2014 Stanley Cup Final. His career is highlighted by three Stanley Cup victories: two with the Kings (2012, 2014) and one with the Golden Knights (2023).

After missing the last nine games due to a hip injury, Martinez returned for what would be his final game. His parents were present in the stands, adding to the emotional atmosphere. “It truly is the best part. I’ve said that a lot this week, I feel like a broken record,” Martinez noted. “The best part about this game are the people you meet along the way and the friendships that last forever.”

On a day already filled with sentiment, Martinez’s teammate, Pat Maroon, also announced earlier that Saturday would be his last game in the NHL. The Blackhawks concluded their final regular-season home game against the Jets, having already been eliminated from playoff contention.

As the Blackhawks look ahead, they will finish the season with two road games against the Montreal Canadiens on Monday and the Ottawa Senators on Tuesday. Martinez leaves behind a legacy as a respected and impactful player in the NHL.