Andrew Cogliano announces retirement from NHL

The Colorado Avalanche Stanley Cup Champion has hung up his skates.

One part of the Colorado Avalanche’s future has been determined. Forward Andrew Cogliano has announced his retirement from the NHL, leaving behind an impressive 17-year career spanning five teams.

In his 17 seasons with the Edmonton Oilers, Anaheim Ducks, Dallas Stars, San Jose Sharks, and Colorado Avalanche, he ends with 1,294 games under his belt. He finishes with 190 goals and 274 assists, but much more under his belt regarding hits, blocked shots, and ultimate will and grit in the bottom six of teams.

Cogliano will at least retire with his name on the Stanley Cup, being a vital part of the 2022 run both on and off the ice. The trade for him at the deadline was key, as he sometimes chipped in on offense. But most importantly, he was a huge leadership mentor in the side, calming the team down with a meeting before Game 6 in the Final against the Tampa Bay Lightning, ultimately leading to the win.

Cogs isn’t leaving hockey altogether, though. He will join the front office and provide solid leadership skills to help develop the Avalanche for the future. He will focus on player development and scouting and work closely with the AHL-affiliate Colorado Eagles.

The retirement adds some extra money for the Avs to work with to fill his spot. His $825,000 deal now is added to the rest of the free agency pool for Colorado to try and re-sign the likes of Jonathan Drouin or find another gritty fourth-line guy.

Cogliano will always be known as a warrior on the ice, and his never-give-up attitude carried him to the end. Thank you for everything, Cogs, and enjoy retirement!