The former captain will also have his number ’12’ retired by the organization as well.
The Carolina Hurricanes have announced that they have signed former captain Eric Staal to a one-day contract so that he can retire as a Cane.
In addition, the organization will honor Staal by having his number ’12’ retired and lifted into the rafters sometime this upcoming season.
“I want to thank my family, former teammates, coaches and staff members who played a role in helping me live my dream, playing in the NHL,” Staal said in a press release. “I will forever treasure the memories and friendships made during my 18 years in the world’s best league.
“From the time I arrived in Raleigh at 18 years old and throughout my 12 years there, I felt the love and support of the fans and organization in a way that will always feel special to me. There was no doubt in my mind that when it became time to hang up my skates, I would want to retire as a Carolina Hurricane. To now also know that the team is retiring my No. 12 is truly humbling and I am extremely grateful and honored.”
Staal, 39, played 12 seasons in Carolina totaling 322 goals and 775 points in 909 games.
He took on the reins as captain following in the footsteps of Rod Brind’Amour in 2010 and held that title until he was traded in 2016.
The Thunder Bay native is also the all-time team leader in goals (322) assists (453), points (775), power play goals (105), power play points (252) and hat tricks (13).
He’s also the only player in team history a 100-point season.
The 2003 second-overall pick even helped lead the Hurricanes to their first and only Stanley Cup in 2006 with nine goals and 28 points during that run.
“Eric is a uniquely central figure in franchise history,” said Carolina general manager Eric Tulsky. “Throughout his time in the Triangle, he made an immeasurable impact on his teammates, the organization and the community. We look forward to raising number 12 to the rafters and celebrating the career of a man who has meant so much to hockey fans in North Carolina.”
Over his playing career, Staal appeared in over 1,300 games and registered over 1,000 points.
He is also one of just 30 members of the Triple Gold Club, winning each of a Stanley Cup (2006), Olympic Gold Medal (2010) and World Championship Gold (2007).
Staal even managed to play alongside each of his four brothers across his career and his legacy lived on in Carolina as his brother Jordan is the current Hurricanes captain.