Cam Ward announces retirement after 14 NHL seasons

Cam Ward has decided to hang up the skates.

The veteran goalie announced Wednesday that he has signed a one-day contract with the Carolina Hurricanes in order to officially retire as a member of the organization.

“It was an honour and a privilege to wear the Hurricanes jersey for 13 years…Throughout it all, what stayed clear to me was my love for this organization, this city and this fan base. It is why my family and I call Raleigh home, and will continue to call it home. I appreciate all of the support the fans gave me throughout the highs and the lows. I thank you.” said Ward.

“I’d also like to thank the great teammates, coaches and staff members I worked with during my time as a player in Carolina. I will always treasure my memories as a player at PNC Arena, from winning the Stanley Cup to representing the organization in the All-Star Game. While this wasn’t an easy decision, I’m looking forward to making the transition with my family and seeing what the future holds for me post career.”

The 35-year old, who was selected 25th overall in the 2002 NHL Draft, posted a 334-256-88 record, 2.74 goals against average and a .908 save percentage in 701 combined regular season games. Other than the 33 games he played as a member of the Chicago Blackhawks in 2018/19, he spent the vast majority of his career with the Hurricanes.

Ward won a Stanley Cup and a Conn Smythe Trophy with the Hurricanes in 2006, a gold medal with Team Canada at the 2007 IIHF World Championship, and was selected to the NHL All-Star game in 2011.

He also holds Hurricanes’ franchise records in franchise leader in wins, losses, saves (18,259) and shutouts (27).