Kevin Hayes has retired from professional hockey, concluding a remarkable 12-year NHL career at the age of 34. This marks the end of an era for a player who made significant contributions to several teams in the league.
Career Highlights and Achievements
The veteran forward played 28 games for the Pittsburgh Penguins last season, where he recorded eight points, comprising four goals and four assists. Recently, he signed a one-year deal with Ak Bars Kazan in the Kontinental Hockey League but went scoreless in five appearances. Ultimately, he decided to step away from the sport, citing ongoing physical issues that were preventing him from performing at his usual standard.
Hayes was a first-round selection (24th overall) by the Chicago Blackhawks in the 2010 NHL Draft. Over the course of his career, he logged 805 regular-season games with teams such as the New York Rangers, Winnipeg Jets, Philadelphia Flyers, St. Louis Blues, and the Pittsburgh Penguins. He achieved a total of 185 goals and 261 assists during the regular season, showcasing his offensive capabilities. Furthermore, he added 26 points (eight goals, 18 assists) across 56 Stanley Cup Playoff games. Notably, as a rookie in the 2015 postseason, he posted seven points in 19 games, playing a crucial role in helping the Rangers reach the Eastern Conference Final, where they ultimately fell to the Tampa Bay Lightning in a hard-fought seven-game series.
Former teammates and coaches in Pittsburgh have praised Hayes for his presence in the locker room, highlighting his storytelling, leadership qualities, and the consistent quality of his play throughout his career. His impact on the game and those around him will be remembered fondly.
In addition to his achievements, Hayes has a personal connection to the sport through his brother, Jimmy Hayes, who played 334 NHL games for the Blackhawks, Florida Panthers, Boston Bruins, and New Jersey Devils before his untimely passing in 2021. The legacy of both brothers will continue to resonate within the hockey community.
As Kevin Hayes moves on to the next chapter of his life, fans and teammates alike will look back on his career with admiration and respect.