Unrestricted free agent defenseman Paul Martin has announced his retirement from the National Hockey League. Martin, 37, is a veteran blue-liner who has seen some action in his 14 NHL seasons, however, last season was challenging for him. Martin became a free agent when the San Jose Sharks bought out the final year of his contract in June.
After two decades of success on the ice, #Gophers All-American and 14-year NHL veteran Paul Martin has decided to retire.
Thank you for embodying #PrideOnIce, Mr. Martin!
Story: https://t.co/bAEb4VTTaB pic.twitter.com/UzxfqSOD1c
— Minnesota M Hockey (@GopherHockey) November 14, 2018
Paul Martin Announces Retirement
Career
Martin has played in a grand total of 859 NHL games and has notched a career total of 318 points (50 goals, 268 assists). He was the 62nd overall pick by the New Jersey Devils in the 2000 NHL Entry Draft. Martin has played for the Devils, the Pittsburgh Penguins, and the Sharks over the course of his NHL career.
Final Year
After playing 81 games and scoring 26 points during the 2016-17 season for the Sharks, Martin struggled last year, only having played in three games before being placed on waivers on January 15th. Martin approached the Sharks right before he was placed on waivers and told them he wished to be traded, but the Sharks were unable to make a deal. He then cleared waivers.
With the Sharks facing some injury issues on the back-end, Martin was called up again late in the year. He finished the campaign with two assists in 14 games. Martin also appeared in seven playoff games.
After the tough year, and not seeing any suitable offers for the new campaign Martin has announced his retirement.
Before the buyout, Martin was entering the final year of a four-year contract deal with an annual salary cap hit of $4.85 million. Martin will be looking to revamp his career and get back on track and prove himself to his new team.
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