Anaheim Ducks announced that they will retire numbers of Paul Kariya and Scott Niedermayer, their two former players and Hockey Hall of Famers, in the next season. The announcement was made by Ducks’ owners Henry and Susan Samueli, who revealed that Kariya’s No.9 will be retired on October 21, while Niedermayer will see his No. 27 going into rafters on February 17. The two will join Teemu Selanne, whose No. 8 was so far the only Ducks’ number retired in the franchise’s 25 years.
Paul Kariya became the Anaheim Ducks’ first-ever draft pick when they drafted him fourth overall in the 1993 NHL Entry Draft. Kariya made his debut for the Ducks in 1994 and played nine years for the team during which he helped the franchise to their first Stanley Cup appearance in 2003. During his time with the Ducks, Kariya played 606 NHL games in which he scored 300 goals and had 369 assists.
“I am extremely honored and very thankful to Henry and Susan Samueli and the entire Ducks organization for this incredible recognition,” – said Kariya in a statement. “This is not something I ever dreamed would happen. I am very grateful to the community for their support.”
Unlike Kariya, Scott Niedermayer didn’t start his career with the Anaheim Ducks, but he did retire as the member of the franchise. Niedermayer spent five years, from 2005 to 2010, with the Ducks and led the team to 2007 Stanley Cup win while receiving Conn Smythe Memorial Trophy. Niedermayer played 371 NHL games for the Ducks in which he scored 50 goals and provided 204 assists alongside top level defense.
“What an incredible honor,” – said Niedermayer in a statement. “I’m very grateful to have played for such an incredible organization in front of amazing Ducks fans. I’m also grateful for the amazing teammates, coaches and training staff I was able to work within Anaheim. Together we achieved great things.”
