San Jose Sharks defenseman Scott Hannan announced his retirement on Wednesday after 16 seasons in the NHL.
"I was extremely fortunate to play in the NHL with five great organizations," Hannan said in statement, according to NHL.com. "I'd like to thank all of my teammates and coaches over the years who have contributed so much to my career. It's also very gratifying to end my NHL career where it started - with the San Jose Sharks."
The British Columbia native was picked 23rd in the first round by the Sharks in the 1997 draft and spent his first eight seasons with the team before playing for the Avalanche in the 2007-08 season. He later returned to the Sharks in the 2012-13 season and has been with the organization since, but did not play this season.
The 37-year-old has played 626 games with the Sharks, which is the sixth most in the team's history, third among defensemen, according to the NHL.
"Scott is one of only six players to play in 600 or more games for our club and is an important part of our team's history," said Sharks general manager Doug Wilson according to HockeyFights.com. "He was a player's player, well respected by his teammates and he truly loves the game. We want to thank Scott and his wife, Kristina, for all they have done for the Sharks franchise and wish them the very best."
He appeared in 76 postseason games with the Sharks, which is sixth all-time. In 100 playoff games with the Sharks, Avalanche, and Capitals, he had 21 points (1G, 20A), and a plus-15 rating.
Hannan was also named the Sharks' "Player of the Month" in Feb. and Oct. 2003, and was nominated for the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy in 2015, according to HockeyFights.com.
His international career was also eventful, capturing a gold medal with Canada in the 2004 World Cup of Hockey and bringing home silver in the 2005 World Championships.
Hannan will continue to live in the San Jose area with his family.
