Preds legend Pekka Rinne officially retires after 15 NHL seasons

This just in, 38 year old Nashville Predators goaltender Pekka Rinne has officially announced his retirement from the NHL. The franchise icon and holder of most of the team's all-time goaltending records retires after spending his entire 15 year, 683 game NHL career with the Preds. He holds the team's goaltender records for games played, wins (369), goals-against average (2.43), total TOI (39,413:29), shutouts (60) and saves (17,627), and in NHL history, he sits 19th in shutouts and tied for 19th in victories. He finished his career with a record of 369-213-75.

"For more than 15 years, I've been on an incredible, life-changing journey with the Nashville Predators that has taken me to more places than I could have ever imagined and given me more than I could ever hope to give back," Rinne said in a prepared statement on the Preds' official website.. "This decision wasn't easy, but I know this is the right one at the right time. As I announce my retirement, I'm thankful for my parents, sisters, fiancé Erika, everyone in the Predators organization - management, coaches and trainers - my teammates and my youth coaches back in Finland. Last but not least, I'm thankful for the people of Nashville. Each of you helped me grow into the man, father and person I am today."

Rinne was effectively passed by fellow Finnish netminder Juuse Saros on the team's depth chart over the past two seasons, but with Saros putting himself into Vezina Trophy consideration as the league's top goaltender the writing was on the wall for Rinne. Combined with the fact that Saros is now the Preds' uncontested starter and the fact that Rinne is nearing 40 years old, you just knew that this announcement was coming. In fact, considering Rinne signed a short-term, 2 year extension back in 2018 it looks like this was the plan all along. Now that Saros has proven he has the ability to carry the load, Rinne can walk off into the sunset knowing that his team is in good hands with Saros between the pipes.

As for Rinne, he's not sure what's next for him in life, but he and his family will settle in the Nashville area rather than return to his native Finland.

"Nashville has become my home, and I have tried to make this community a better place than when I first arrived," Rinne said. "Over time, I've learned what this organization is all about, and that's family. I'll cherish the memories and friendships I've made for the rest of my life."

Congrats on a fantastic career, Peks!