Kevin Hayes announces retirement from professional hockey

Professional hockey player Kevin Hayes has announced his retirement at age 34. The decision follows a brief five-game stint with Ak Bars Kazan of the KHL, where he did not record any points.

Hayes cited physical limitations as the primary reason for his departure from the sport, stating, “I can no longer play at the level I am capable of because my body does not allow me to perform at my best. And I cannot accept not being in top form.”

Over a career spanning 12 seasons in the NHL, Hayes played 805 regular-season games. He recorded 446 points during his NHL tenure, playing for teams including the New York Rangers, Winnipeg Jets, Philadelphia Flyers, St. Louis Blues, and Pittsburgh Penguins. His career highlights include a 25-goal season with the Rangers in 2017-18 and a 54-point season with the Flyers in 2022-23.