Zack Kassian announces retirement: gets new role with the Oilers

Former first-round pick Zack Kassian, after 12 seasons in the NHL and a short run in Europe, has announced his retirement from hockey. Per Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal, Kassian is now moving into a new role as a professional scout for the Edmonton Oilers.

Kassian was selected 13th overall by the Buffalo Sabres in 2009 but spent very little time with the squad. He was traded mid-way through his rookie year to the Vancouver Canucks in exchange for Cody Hodgson.

The Windsor native played out his career in Edmonton with the Oilers, Arizona with the Coyotes, Buffalo with the Sabres, and Vancouver with the Canucks. In 661 games played in the NHL, Kassian collected 203 points, through 92 goals, and 111 assists.

Prior to the 2023-24 season, Kassian attempted to make a comeback with a professional tryout with the Anaheim Ducks, but it didn't work out. A number of weeks following his release, he opted to hang up his skates. Retirement wouldn't quite stick, though, as three months later he inked a deal with HC Sparta Praha of the Czech Extraliga.

We'd like to wish Zack Kassian all the best in his new role as a scout and congratulate him on a very solid hockey career.

Source: Blades of Steel
Zack Kassian retires from professional hockey, lands gig with Edmonton Oilers

Source: NHL.com
Zack Kassian Stats