Cal Clutterbuck announces retirement from NHL
One of the game’s most physical players is hanging up his skates.
On Wednesday, former New York Islanders forward Cal Clutterbuck announced his retirement from the NHL.
In a video posted on Instagram, Clutterbuck, who didn’t play at all during the 2024-25 season, made it official.
“After 17 years, it’s time to hang up the skates,” Clutterbuck wrote. “I’m beyond grateful for every teammate, coach, fan, and moment along the way. Hockey gave me everything — a purpose, a brotherhood, and a lifetime of memories.”
The 37-year-old thanked the Islanders fans for their support, as well as two of his best teammates, Matt Martin and Casey Cizikas.
“To Matt and Casey — it was an honor to go to war with you night in and night out. What we built together means more than words can say. And to the Islanders faithful — your passion, loyalty, and love made Long Island home. Thank you all. On to the next chapter.”
Clutterbuck spent 16 full seasons in the NHL. He started with the Minnesota Wild, the team that took him in the third round, 72nd overall, of the 2006 NHL Draft. He quickly became a fan favorite for his toughness and spirited play. After six years with the organization, Clutterbuck was traded to the Islanders in June 2013 as part of the deal that saw Nino Niederreiter head to the Wild.
The Welland, Ontario native was with the team through thick and thin. Through memorable playoff runs in 2016, 2019, 2020 and 2021, and even some tough years in between, Clutterbuck’s name was right in tow with the Islanders’ image. His last season was the 2023-24 campaign, in which he appeared in all 82 games, scoring seven goals and 19 points.
In 1,064 NHL appearances, Clutterbuck scored 143 goals and 150 assists for 293 points. He also posted 12 goals and 20 point in 81 Stanley Cup Playoff games.
Clutterbuck wasn’t known for his scoring. He was known for being one of the heavy hitters in the NHL, and consistently led the league in body checks. The NHL started recording hits in 2005-06, just a couple of years before Clutterbuck made his debut with the Wild. He set a single-season record with 356 checks in 2008-09, a record that stood until Martin broke the record three years later.
Clutterbuck led the league in hits three times, becoming a formidable duo with Martin once he was traded to the Isles. Clutterbuck is the all-time hits leader, with 4,029 hits over his career, leading Martin by 103 checks.