After a 10 plus year NHL career veteran defenseman announces his retirement.

After a var long NHL career, especially considering he was just a 6th round draft pick, veteran blue liner Brent Sopel has announced his retirement. Chris Kuc of the Chicago Tribune reported the news on Friday, and Sopel who had spent the final years of his professional career in the KHL, and this last season in the AHL, is hanging up his skates. While Sopel spent the majority of his NHL career with the Canucks and the Blackhawk, as a journeymen blue liner he spent time with multiple franchises including L.A., Atlanta and Montreal. Sopel made it clear that his fondest memories of his time in the NHL were with the Blackhawks, and it's no surprised given the success he had there.

"While each professional season holds a special place in my heart, the years I spent with the Blackhawks are my fondest memories."

Sopel retires with 44 goals, 174 assists for a total of 218 points over his 649 game NHL career, he also has his name on one Stanely Cup. We wish you all the best in your future endeavors Brent!