Former NY Rangers Playoff Hero, 13-Year Veteran Retires

After 13 seasons and nearly 900 games games, 33-year-old forward Derek Stepan has hung up the skates.

Derek Stepan has officially announced his retirement following 890 regular-season games and 120 playoff games over 13 NHL seasons.

Full release: https://t.co/Scfc83vNCX pic.twitter.com/8ctwOntiuJ

— NHLPA (@NHLPA) October 3, 2023

Stepan played for four teams in his career, but had his most success with the New York Rangers, where spent the first seven years of his career, and had five 50+ point seasons. His highlight? A Game 7 series-clinching overtime winner against the Washington Capitals in 2015. 

Derek Stepan has announced his retirement from hockey after 13 seasonspic.twitter.com/ohHfJIbr1z

— Rangers Videos (@SNYRangers) October 3, 2023

Stepan actually made playoff appearances in 10 of his 13 NHL seasons, also playing for the Arizona Coyotes, Ottawa Senators and Carolina Hurricanes. 

"I want to thank my family and friends for always supporting me and allowing me to live my dreams," Stepan said in a statement. "I want to thank the four organizations I had the privilege of playing for, and to my teammates for allowing me to be part of their family. Finally, I want to thank the fans; it was an honor to play in front of you. I’m forever grateful for this game, and I look forward to the next chapter.”

Stepan finishes with 182 goals and 333 assists for 515 points in 890 regular season games, while adding another 20 goals and 55 points in a healthy number of 120 playoff contests.