Kevin Shattenkirk Facing Retirement After Rejecting Offer From Western Canadian Team

Tuesday, November 26, 2024 ,

Kevin Shattenkirk, a 35-year-old defenseman and 2020 Stanley Cup champion, appears to be contemplating retirement after a 14-season NHL career. 

Following a productive 2023-24 season with the Boston Bruins, where he recorded 24 points (6 goals, 18 assists) in 61 games, Shattenkirk reportedly turned down a contract offer from a Western Canadian team, potentially the Edmonton Oilers, Calgary Flames, or Vancouver Canucks, according to Larry Brooks of the New York Post. 

While still capable of providing veteran stability on the blue line, Shattenkirk may now prioritize proximity to his Long Island home or an ideal competitive situation, limiting his options in the free-agent market.

Shattenkirk had previously expressed interest in joining the Oilers, with Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet noting on the 32 Thoughts podcast, “I’ve heard that Shattenkirk would love to be a part of that Oilers team if there’s a spot for him.” 

However, Edmonton’s limited cap space and roster constraints made negotiations tough. Brooks speculated that Shattenkirk’s preference to stay closer to home might narrow his opportunities to Eastern Conference teams, though no significant offers have materialized. 

Without the right fit, Shattenkirk may choose to end his career rather than sign in a less-than-ideal scenario.

If this marks the conclusion of Shattenkirk’s NHL journey, he leaves behind a career spanning 952 games with seven teams, including the Colorado Avalanche, St. Louis Blues, New York Rangers, and Tampa Bay Lightning. 

He amassed 484 points (103 goals, 381 assists) and earned a Stanley Cup with Tampa Bay in 2020.

Photo Credit: Russell LaBounty-Imagn Images



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