By
The Hockey News Husna Muhdhar
Jason Spezza has announced his retirement from the NHL
after a 19-year NHL career that spanned approximately 1,250 games.
Spezza was a dynamo in his early years, having been
drafted second overall by the Ottawa Senators in 2001. He debuted in the NHL in
2002-2003 before becoming a full-time player in 2003-2004, when he had his
first 50-point season.
He returned to the NHL the following year after
obliterating the AHL with 117 points and an MVP award during the NHL lockout in
2004-2005.
Jason recorded a 90-point season, which was only surpassed once in his
career when he had 92 in 2007-08.
Spezza, who is 38 years old, has four seasons with at
least 80 points and 12 years with at least 50 points. Spezza also spent five
seasons in Dallas before finishing his career with a three-year stint with
Toronto.
Spezza has 25 points in 71 regular-season games and one
assist in five playoff games last season.
Spezza has one World Championship, two silvers, a
Spengler Cup, and three World Junior Championship medals outside of the NHL.
After leading Canada to gold at the 2015 World Championship, he was awarded
best forward.
Spezza will work as a special assistant to Leafs GM Kyle
Dubas in his post-playing days if he chooses to stay in the game.
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