Oilers Defenseman Duncan Keith Retiring from NHL

One of the most complete blueliners in the game has decided to hang them up. Edmonton Oilers defenseman Duncan Keith will be retiring from hockey, leaving the Oilers in a nice spot for free agency. TSN's Pierre LeBrun was first to report the news.

The #oilers suddenly have a ton of cap space. https://t.co/BCNweP7zkw
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) July 8, 2022

Confirming #Oilers D Duncan Keith has reached a decision to retire, leaving Edmonton with lots of cap flexibility now. #Blackhawks will also be hit with a cap recapture charge, which was a difficult part of Keith’s discernment process.

First to report: @PierreVLeBrun
— Frank Seravalli (@frank_seravalli) July 8, 2022

Duncan Keith retirement cap recapture penalty for #Blackhawks, per @CapFriendly:

2022-23: $5,538,462
2023-24: $1,938,456
— Frank Seravalli (@frank_seravalli) July 8, 2022

The 38-year-old Keith ends his career with $73.4 million in career earnings, 1256 regular season games played to go along with 646 points. He also was a beast during the Stanley Cup Playoffs, appearing in 151 games and collecting 91 points. Not bad for what some called a stay-at-home defenseman at certain parts of his career.

Keith's trophy case is full of accolades and he was one of the most intense players to hit the ice. He'll be remembered most as an all-time great Chicago Blackhawk who was traded closer to home to be with his family.

Congrats to Duncan Keith on an impressive career!