News – NHL: Jason Spezza (TOR) announces his retirement

National Hockey League

Toronto Maple Leafs

Jason Spezza announced his retirement on Sunday, accepting a role in hockey operations with the Toronto Maple Leafs. The Toronto organization confirmed everything without specifying the nature of Spezza’s new functions, but the site The Athletic indicated that he will act as special assistant to the general manager, Kyle Dubas.

The 38-year-old has amassed 363 goals and 995 points in 1,248 games with the Ottawa Senators, Dallas Stars and Leafs. He added 28 goals and 76 points in 97 playoff games.

Spezza was the second pick in the 2001 National Hockey League (NHL) draft when the Senators selected him. Only Ilya Kovalchuk (Atlanta Thrashers) had been preferred to him.

Jason Spezza announced today his retirement from the NHL after 19 seasons. He will be joining the Maple Leafs’ front office effective immediately. #LeafsForever

—Toronto Maple Leafs (@MapleLeafs) May 29, 2022