Dallas Stars forward Joe Pavelski announced on Tuesday that he will not be returning for the next season, declaring, “this is it for me.” Although Pavelski did not explicitly state that he was retiring from the NHL, he indicated during the Stars’ exit interviews that he had been contemplating that the 2023-24 season would likely be his final one. At 40 years old, Pavelski was the second-oldest player in the NHL this season, following behind Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Mark Giordano. After playing 18 seasons without a Stanley Cup win, Pavelski’s journey in the league has come to an emotional conclusion.
The Stars’ exit from the Western Conference final due to a 2-1 loss against the Edmonton Oilers has sparked questions about Pavelski’s future in the league. Teammates like captain Jamie Benn, Tyler Seguin, and Wyatt Johnston, who lived with Pavelski and his family, were visibly emotional when asked whether this could be Pavelski’s final game. The decision was solidified as Pavelski, an unrestricted free agent, finished his last game with five shots on goal and over 16 minutes of ice time.
Stars coach Pete DeBoer, who had previously coached Pavelski during their time with the San Jose Sharks, expressed his gratitude for having the opportunity to coach a player of Pavelski’s caliber. DeBoer reflected on the impact Pavelski had on the team, acknowledging that the young players on the roster had immensely benefited from being around a player like him.
Originally a seventh-round pick by the Sharks in 2003, Pavelski grew to become a cornerstone of the franchise. With 476 goals and 1,068 points in 1,332 regular-season games, Pavelski’s contributions to the Sharks’ success were notable. His leadership and performance on the ice helped the Sharks reach four conference finals and one Stanley Cup Final appearance in 2016. Following his departure from the Sharks, Pavelski signed a contract with the Stars, leading the team to a Stanley Cup Final in his first season.
In his time with the Stars, Pavelski not only continued to showcase his skills on the ice but also emerged as a mentor and leader for the younger players on the team. Veterans like Benn and Seguin, along with emerging talents like Miro Heiskanen and Roope Hintz, created a formidable roster that made a deep playoff run in 2023. Pavelski’s role as a captain and mentor was evident in his interactions with teammates, providing support and guidance to the younger players.
The Legacy Lives On
As Pavelski bids farewell to his illustrious career in the NHL, his impact and legacy will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of fans, teammates, and the hockey community. His leadership, dedication, and passion for the game have left an indelible mark on the sport, inspiring future generations of players to strive for greatness both on and off the ice. Joe Pavelski may be stepping away from the game, but his legacy as a hockey great will remain etched in the history of the NHL.