When former Buffalo Sabres captain Kyle Okposo raised the Stanley Cup on June 24 following the Florida Panthers’ emotional 2-1 win in Game 7, he ended his 17-year career in storybook fashion.
On Thursday, Okposo, who played 516 games over eight seasons for the Sabres before they traded him to the Panthers on March 8, retired from the NHL.
The affable Okposo, 36, joined the Sabres as a free agent in 2016, leaving the New York Islanders to sign a seven-year, $42 million contract. After earning a spot in the NHL All-Star Game that season, concussions nearly derailed his career.
The American suffered a frightening one late in 2016-17 that left him hospitalized in intensive care. Others followed, and he often struggled as the Sabres remained at the bottom of the NHL.
But Okposo recovered and emerged as one of the Sabres’ strongest assets and undisputed leader, helping guide them through a rebuild. He earned the captaincy in 2022 and was very much the face of the team, offering thoughtful words in good times and bad.
The winger signed a one-year, $2.5 million contract in 2023 to return to the Sabres. While they missed the playoffs again and own a 13-year drought, he has spoken proudly about leaving the team in a good place.
After the Sabres gave him an opportunity to pursue a championship, he played 23 total games for the Panthers, including 17 playoff contests and six games in the final.
He compiled 242 goals and 614 points in 1,051 career NHL games. The Islanders drafted him seventh overall in 2006.
Kyle, you have many things to be proud of.
An excellent hockey player, a father and husband. Of course a winner.
Its good to leave on top of your game. Im sure you will unlock the next door in your life.
Best of luck!
A very devoted Kyle fan!