Veteran goaltender Cam Ward signed a one-day contract with the Carolina Hurricanes and will officially retire from the NHL after 14 seasons, the club announced Wednesday.
"It was an honor and a privilege to wear the Hurricanes jersey for 13 years," Ward said in a statement. "Throughout it all, what stayed clear to me was my love for this organization, this city, and this fan base. It is why my family and I call Raleigh home and will continue to call it home. I appreciate all of the support the fans gave me throughout the highs and the lows. I thank you."
Ward, 35, made one of the most remarkable debuts in NHL history, taking over the Carolina net during his rookie season in 2005-06 and leading the Hurricanes to the first and only Stanley Cup in franchise history. The then-22-year-old won the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP.
"I'd also like to thank the great teammates, coaches and staff members I worked with during my time as a player in Carolina," Ward's statement continued. "I will always treasure my memories as a player at PNC Arena, from winning the Stanley Cup to representing the organization in the All-Star Game. While this wasn't an easy decision, I'm looking forward to making the transition with my family and seeing what the future holds for me post-career."
The 6-foot-1 netminder holds several Hurricanes franchise goaltending records with 668 games played, 318 wins, and 27 shutouts. Ward suited up for 701 contests over his career, posting a record of 334-356-88 with a 2.74 goals-against average and .908 save percentage.
The Saskatchewan native signed a one-year, $3-million contract with the Chicago Blackhawks ahead of the 2018-19 season. He appeared in 33 games for the Blackhawks.
