Joe Pavelski, a notable figure in the NHL, has hinted that he may retire and not return for the 2024-25 season. The 39-year-old forward mentioned in a press conference that while his decision isn’t entirely final, he is leaning towards not playing next season.
“We’re still in the process of moving and sorting things out,” Pavelski stated during the Dallas Stars’ end-of-year media session. “I don’t want to say this is official, but the plan is not to be coming back.”
Pavelski has had a remarkable 18-year career in the NHL after being selected in the seventh round of the 2003 NHL Entry Draft. Throughout his tenure with the San Jose Sharks and the Dallas Stars, he accumulated an impressive 476 goals and 592 assists, totaling 1,068 points across 1,332 regular-season games.
His contributions in the playoffs are equally notable, having participated in numerous deep playoff runs. Pavelski reached the Stanley Cup Finals twice, in 2016 and 2020, and appeared in seven Western Conference Finals.
Discussing Pavelski’s career on the “Daily Faceoff LIVE” show, Frank Seravalli and Tyler Yaremchuk reflected on his legacy and potential Hall of Fame induction.
Tyler Yaremuchk commented: “Out in Dallas, it certainly sounded like Pavelski is done. If it is the end for him, what a career it’s been. His dedication to the game was extraordinary, and even without a Stanley Cup ring, it doesn’t take away from his fantastic career.”
Pavelski’s career is marked by several near-misses for the Stanley Cup, and he is one of the rare players who improved with age. His scoring surged late in his career, going from the 30-point range back up to 81 points in his late 30s. Yaremchuk highlighted Pavelski’s unique ability as a net-front player, arguably the best of his generation.
“I’m going to take it a step further: I don’t know if he’s first ballot, but he’s in my Hall of Fame,” Yaremchuk added.
Pavelski’s potential retirement marks the end of an era for a player who has left an indelible mark on the NHL through his consistency, skill, and leadership on the ice. Whether or not he makes it into the Hockey Hall of Fame immediately, his career achievements speak volumes about his impact on the sport.
