Mike Fisher being named captain and the World Cup of Hockey starting weren’t the only Nashville Predators-related bits of news on Thursday. Former Preds center Paul Gaustad decided to hang up his skates.
Via his Instagram account, the 2000 seventh round pick of the Buffalo Sabres, announced his retirement after 727 NHL games.
“I have decided to move on to the next chapter of my life and career,” he posted. “It has been an honor and a privilege to play in the AHL and NHL, and I am forever grateful for the amazing friendships and memories I’ve made during this journey.”
Gaustad registered 89 goals and 231 points in his 12-season career. But he wasn’t known for his offense but more so for his strong defensive play, his prowess on the penalty kill and his dominance in the face off circle.
The Predators chose not to re-sign the former Portland Winterhawk this off-season, instead inking a home grown prospect who’s believed to be Gaustad’s heir apparent in Colton Sissons.
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PHOTO CREDIT: Sarah Fuqua // Penalty Box Radio
