Kyle Okposo Retires After 17 Seasons and Stanley Cup Victory with Panthers

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Kyle Okposo is retiring as a Stanley Cup champion.

After concluding his career in the NHL with a title from the Florida Panthers, Okposo announced his retirement on Thursday. This decision marks the end of a remarkable 17-season journey through professional hockey.

Okposo began his NHL career when the New York Islanders selected him with the seventh overall pick in the 2006 draft. He shared the news of his retirement through a heartfelt note on social media, expressing immense gratitude for his time in the sport.

In his letter distributed by his agency, CAA, Okposo described his three decades of playing hockey as “incredible.” He reflected on how the sport took him to remarkable places and gifted him with unique experiences.

“I believe the game is in a great place right now, but the possibilities are vast,” he said. “I’m looking forward to continuing to contribute to the game as it reaches new heights.”

Throughout his career, Okposo tallied 242 goals and 372 assists over the span of 1,051 NHL regular-season games. Notably, all but six of these appearances were with either the New York Islanders or the Buffalo Sabres.

He reached the playoffs four times, specifically in 2013, 2015, and 2016 as a member of the Islanders. He capped off his career by winning the Stanley Cup with the Panthers last season, a title he had long awaited.

During the on-ice celebration following the Panthers’ Game 7 victory over the Edmonton Oilers, the significance of Okposo finally winning the Cup was not lost on his teammates. After captain Aleksander Barkov accepted the trophy from NHL commissioner Gary Bettman, he handed it to goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky. Bobrovsky then presented it to Okposo, allowing him to take a celebratory lap around the rink.

“What an experience, what a moment with these guys,” Okposo recalled with excitement. “I took a leap of faith 3½ months ago, and this is what it was for. I wanted a chance to win, and these guys, they’re just an incredible bunch. We did everything to win. We did it the hard way.”

Okposo’s retirement marks the end of not just a competitive career, but also a commitment to the sport that has deeply influenced his life. As he embarks on this new chapter, he remains hopeful about the future of hockey and his role within it.

The legacy of Kyle Okposo will remain significant for his contributions both on and off the ice. As he steps away from professional play, he leaves behind a wealth of experience and a story of perseverance, dedication, and passion for the game.

This is a significant moment for Okposo, who has weathered many ups and downs throughout his time in the NHL. His journey is a testament to the hard work that goes into achieving one’s dreams and the impact of teamwork in sports.