Jason Smith, one of my fav players to watch the past 10 years, retired. He played over 1000 games and had over 1000 PIMs.
Smith was drafted in the first round of the 1992 NHL entry draft. He was part of the deadline deal that brought Doug Gilmour to the New Jersey Devils.
TO shipped him off to Edmonton where Smith made his mark as an on-ice warrior and captain. Smith was part of the Oilers-Stars playoff rivalry in 1999, 2000, 2001,2003 seasons. Despite the series sometimes being short they were some of the most entertaining games of the playoffs. Smith was also a key member of the Oilers team that came within a game of capturing the Stanley Cup in 2006.He finished his career with a stop in Philli where he was the one year captain for the Flyers. Then Ottawa where he was brought in for leadership but his body could no longer keep up with the play.
From TSN.ca
“I have been fortunate to have played in the NHL for 16 years. I have played alongside many great teammates and for organizations that I was proud to have been a part of,” said Smith at a press conference. “I would like to thank all of my teammates, owners, coaches, managers and staff that I have had the privilege of working with through the years and would like to recognize the fans for their tremendous support.
The NHL is gonna miss ya!