RALEIGH, N.C. — Eric Staal reached a significant milestone in his career as he became the fourth player in history to have his jersey number retired by the Carolina Hurricanes. His No. 12 was officially lifted to the rafters at the Lenovo Center just before the team faced off against the Anaheim Ducks on Sunday.
Born in Thunder Bay, Ontario, and selected second overall in the NHL draft, Staal dedicated 12 of his 18 seasons in the league to the Hurricanes. During his time on the ice, he accumulated an impressive total of 455 goals and 608 assists across 1,365 games. Staal served as the team’s captain from 2009 until 2016 and was selected to participate in six NHL All-Star Games, notably earning the MVP award in 2008.
At the age of 40, Staal has now transitioned into retirement after signing a symbolic one-day contract with the Hurricanes in July. His jersey will now join the ranks of Rod Brind’Amour, Ron Francis, and Glen Wesley, who also have their numbers honored in the arena.
Throughout his tenure with the Hurricanes, Staal set several franchise records after the team moved from Hartford, Connecticut, in 1997. These records include the most goals (322), assists (453), total points (775), games played (909), power-play goals (105), power-play points (252), and hat tricks (13). Beyond personal achievements, Staal was pivotal in leading the franchise to their first Stanley Cup championship in 2006, an accomplishment he cherishes greatly.
Reflecting on his career highlight, Staal stated, “The memory I have of a Hurricane is of a Stanley Cup champion. It’s not easy to win one. I only have one, and I won it here.”
During the ceremony, Staal was surrounded by family, including his brothers Jordan, the current captain of the Hurricanes, and Marc, a former NHL defenseman. Current players watched the event from the sidelines, and several of Staal’s former teammates, including Hurricanes Hall of Famers Cam Ward and Justin Williams, were also in attendance wearing their varsity jackets.
A poignant video montage displayed memories from Staal’s playing career, showcasing highlights and personal interviews. “Words can hardly do justice how much this means to me,” he expressed, as fans intermittently chanted his name. “Growing up, playing in the NHL felt like an impossible dream.”
As a special gift, Staal received a Breitling watch customized with his name, number, and the inscription “Forever a Hurricane.”
In discussions with the media following the ceremony, Staal mentioned his interest in staying connected to hockey in some capacity in the future. At present, however, he is focused on family life. “I have three boys. They’re 15, 13, and 10. I’m helping coach my oldest son and my youngest. … Time just kind of goes fast,” he remarked.
