Flyers’ Matt Niskanen Makes a Surprising Retirement Decision

Matt Niskanen with Capitals. Photo by Justin Cooper/CSM/Shutterstock

In an unexpected turn of events, veteran defenseman Matt Niskanen informed the Philadelphia Flyers that he is retiring from NHL. Niskanen, who turns 34 in December, had one year on his deal with the organization.

Flyers were also surprised by the decision and have reportedly given the player some extra time to reconsider his decision. Niskanen, however, stayed resolved to walk away from the game.

Niskanen did not explain the reasons for his retirement decision.

“Thank you to the Flyers for the opportunity to play in Philly last season,” Niskanen wrote in a text message to Flyers’ PR. “I’d also like to thank the fans for their support and lastly, I wish my teammates the best of luck.”

Matt Niskanen landed in Philadelphia last year in a trade with Washington Capitals that saw Radko Gudas head in the opposite direction. Niskanen ended up enjoying a productive season with the Flyers, contributing with 33 points (eight goals and 25 assists), which was his second-biggest total since 2013/14.

Besides the Flyers and Capitals, Niskanen also suited up for Dallas Stars and Pittsburgh Penguins. He won the Stanley Cup with the Capitals in 2018.

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