Craig Smith Announces Retirement from NHL After 14 Seasons

Craig Smith, a veteran forward in the National Hockey League (NHL), announced his retirement on Monday after a distinguished 14-year career. Smith, who played 987 regular-season games, concluded his time in the league with a total of 452 points, comprising 220 goals and 232 assists. His last season saw him split time between the Chicago Blackhawks and the Detroit Red Wings, where he recorded 16 points (nine goals, seven assists) in 59 games.

Longtime forward Craig Smith retires from NHLEx-Blackhawks Forward Hangs Up The SkatesSmith retires from NHL after 14 seasons, helped Predators reach 2017 Final

Originally selected by the Nashville Predators in the fourth round of the 2009 NHL Draft, Smith made his NHL debut in 2011. He spent nine seasons with the Predators, where he became known for his scoring ability, achieving over 20 goals in five different seasons. Smith played a pivotal role in the Predators' journey to the Stanley Cup Final in 2017, contributing to the team's historic run despite being limited by injury during the playoffs.

Longtime forward Craig Smith retires from NHLSmith retires from NHL after 14 seasons, helped Predators reach 2017 FinalEx-Blackhawks Forward Hangs Up The Skates

Throughout his career, Smith also played for the Boston Bruins, Washington Capitals, Dallas Stars, Chicago Blackhawks, and Detroit Red Wings. His most productive season came in 2013-14 when he posted a career-high 52 points (24 goals, 28 assists). In addition to his NHL accomplishments, Smith represented the United States in the IIHF World Championship four times, earning a bronze medal in 2013.

Ex-Blackhawks Forward Hangs Up The SkatesSmith retires from NHL after 14 seasons, helped Predators reach 2017 FinalLongtime forward Craig Smith retires from NHL

In a statement shared on social media, Smith expressed gratitude for his time in the NHL, stating, "How do you wrap up 14 years of playing in the best hockey league in the world in a few paragraphs? I'll start by saying how grateful I am that it even happened in the first place." He acknowledged the impact of the league on his life and thanked his teammates, coaches, and fans for their support throughout his career.

Smith retires from NHL after 14 seasons, helped Predators reach 2017 Final

Smith also reflected on the friendships he formed, saying, "I am so grateful for the lifelong friendships I've made throughout the years. I'll miss the locker room dearly." He concluded by thanking the teams he played for, emphasizing the honor he felt representing each franchise.

Smith retires from NHL after 14 seasons, helped Predators reach 2017 Final

While Smith's retirement marks the end of a notable career, some analysts have pointed out that his final season did not reflect his peak performance levels. Critics suggest that the trade to the Detroit Red Wings at the 2025 NHL trade deadline may have indicated a decline in his role within the league.

Ex-Blackhawks Forward Hangs Up The Skates

As Smith steps away from professional hockey, he has not specified his future plans but mentioned looking forward to building his family and enjoying the new year. His departure leaves a legacy of resilience and dedication in the NHL, where he made a significant impact over more than a decade.

Ex-Blackhawks Forward Hangs Up The Skates

• “How do you wrap up 14 years of playing in the best hockey league in the world in a few paragraphs?” — Craig Smith

Smith retires from NHL after 14 seasons, helped Predators reach 2017 Final

• “Thank you again to the Nashville Predators, Boston Bruins, Washington Capitals, Dallas Stars, Chicago Blackhawks and Detroit Red Wings for believing in me and giving me an opportunity to represent your crests. It was my greatest honor. I'm not sure what the future holds for me yet, but for now I look forward to building our family and enjoying the start of the new year.” — Craig Smith

Smith retires from NHL after 14 seasons, helped Predators reach 2017 Final