Apr 25, 2024; Elmont, New York, USA; Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Dmitry Orlov (7) checks New York Islanders right wing Cal Clutterbuck (15) during the first period in game three of the first round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at UBS Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Schneidler-USA TODAY Sports

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Cal Clutterbuck Announces Retirement After 17 NHL Seasons

Veteran forward Cal Clutterbuck calls it a career, wrapping up nearly two decades of grit, leadership, and playoff battles in the NHL.

After 17 hard-fought seasons in the NHL, Cal Clutterbuck has officially called it a career. The gritty forward took to Instagram to share the news with fans, posting a short reel and an emotional message announcing his retirement after going unsigned for the 2024-25 season.

Clutterbuck, known for his fearless style of play and bruising physicality, thanked his teammates, coaches, and fans for being a part of the journey. He gave a special shoutout to his longtime linemates Matt Martin and Casey Cizikas, and the Islanders fanbase that embraced him as one of their own.

Congratulations on your career, Cal. 💙

After 1,064 NHL games, Cal Clutterbuck has decided to hang up the skates. pic.twitter.com/tPHESWnDN6
— NHL (@NHL) April 23, 2025

17 Years of Dedication

Clutterbuck’s journey began in junior hockey with the Oshawa Generals before being drafted by the Minnesota Wild in 2006. He quickly made a name for himself in the NHL with his relentless checking game, eventually becoming the league’s all-time leader in hits with 4,029. His early years in Minnesota showed glimpses of offensive upside, but his true value came in the form of energy, toughness, and leadership. When he joined the New York Islanders in 2013, he became a core piece of one of the NHL’s most consistent fourth lines, forming a trio with Martin and Cizikas that opponents hated playing against. Over time, he became not just a reliable presence on the ice, but a respected voice in the locker room, even wearing the “A” as an alternate captain. Clutterbuck finishes his career with 1,064 NHL games played, 293 points, and a reputation as one of the toughest competitors of his generation.

Clutterbuck leaves behind a legacy of grit, heart, and loyalty, qualities that can’t be measured on a stat sheet. Hockey was never just a job for him; it was a passion, a brotherhood, and a lifelong adventure.

Image Credit: Dennis Schneidler-USA TODAY Sports

Cal Clutterbuck

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Anamika Shrivastava

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