Surprise report - NHL veteran of 17 years appears to be hanging up the skates for good after saddened news

The Carolina Hurricanes have released veteran goaltender Jaroslav Halák from his professional tryout, marking a potential turning point in the 17-year career of the 38-year-old. Walt Ruff from the team's official site reported this development, highlighting Halák's addition to the team two weeks ago due to the prolonged absence of starting goaltender Frederik Andersen.

Despite practicing with the team during this period, Halák initiated the release process, as confirmed by Hurricanes head coach Rod Brind'Amour due to personal reasoning and an agreement with the team. In Andersen's absence, the team will move forward with Antti Raanta and Pyotr Kochetkov.

Carolina's goaltending has shown improvement in the five games since Andersen's departure. Raanta boasts a 2-1-0 record and .908 SV% in three appearances, while Kochetkov holds a 1-1-0 record and an impressive .935 SV% in two starts, including a notable shutout against the Lightning on November 11.




Originally brought in for veteran support, Halák's tenure with the Hurricanes didn't unfold as planned. Meanwhile, Kochetkov, a 24-year-old on a four-year, $8MM contract, is gradually finding success at the NHL level.


As Halák contemplates the next steps in his 17-year, 581-game NHL career, the prospect of retirement looms larger. The 38-year-old, who served as an average backup, recorded a .903 SV% and 2.72 GAA in 25 appearances with the Rangers in the 2022-23 season. Retirement seems increasingly likely for the seasoned goaltender.