After 17 NHL seasons with 12 clubs, journeyman forward Mike Sillinger has called it a career.
Sillinger announced his retirement at a Wednesday news conference. He cited an injured left hip as the main reason for his decision.
"To play the sport of hockey, something I've had a passion for all my life, at the professional level for the past 17 years and to be able to support my family has been a dream come true," said Sillinger during the announcement. "From playing this game I have met some of my best friends and will cherish the memories we made forever."
The 38-year old native of Regina, Saskatchewan, played 1,049 NHL games since being drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in the first round (11th overall) of the 1989 Entry Draft. His most prolific season came in 2006-07 with the Islanders when he had 26 goals and 33 assists.
Overall, he compiled 240 goals and 548 points. He was traded 10 times during his career, including twice in one day in July, 2003.
"Mike has and always will be a tremendous ambassador for this game," said Islanders general manager Garth Snow. "He is a born leader in everything he does and on behalf of the New York Islanders I wish him and his family the very best in the future."
In addition to the Islanders and Red Wings, Sillinger suited up for Anaheim, Vancouver, Philadelphia, Tampa Bay, Florida, Ottawa, Columbus, Phoenix, St. Louis, and Nashville.
