SHOCKING: Bruins Veteran Defenseman Announces Retirement

During the summer of 2023, Boston Bruins GM Don Sweeney signed several veterans to one-year contracts for the 2023-24 season, including defenseman. Though Shattenkirk only spent one season in Boston, his leadership left a lasting impression on his teammates. Fellow veteran Pat Maroon reflected on Shattenkirk’s influence last spring.

“There’s a reason he’s been successful before,” Maroon said. “His leadership, his voice—it resonates. He emphasized not having regrets when you lay down your head after the game.”

After the season, Sweeney chose not to re-sign Shattenkirk, and the defenseman was unable to secure a contract elsewhere for the 2024-25 campaign. Following a 14-year NHL career, which began after playing college hockey at Boston University, Shattenkirk has decided to retire from professional hockey.

Former Bruins defenseman Kevin Shattenkirk retires

After 952 games with the Bruins, New York Rangers, Anaheim Ducks, Washington Capitals, Colorado Avalanche, St. Louis Blues, and Tampa Bay Lightning, where he won the Stanley Cup in 2019–20, Shattenkirk announced his retirement from the NHL on Tuesday.

Kevin Shattenkirk played 61 games for the Boston Bruins last season, recording six goals and 18 assists while averaging 15:47 of ice time per game. Former coach Jim Montgomery occasionally made him a healthy scratch to keep him fresh for the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Despite limited usage, Shattenkirk provided a steady presence on the Bruins’ blue line and served as a valuable backup option on the power play.

Though the 35-year-old defenseman drew serious interest from the Edmonton Oilers, he ultimately couldn’t secure a roster spot for the 2024-25 season. Shattenkirk concluded his 14-year NHL career with 103 goals, 381 assists, and 484 points. Considering his solid performance in Boston, it was somewhat surprising he didn’t find a suitable fit to continue playing this season.