Alec Martinez, best known for scoring the Stanley Cup clinching goal for the Los Angeles Kings in 2014, is hanging up his skates.
The Chicago Blackhawks defenseman announced he would retire after Saturday's game against the Winnipeg Jets. He discussed his NHL journey with Chicago Sports Network's Darren Pang prior to the contest.
"You're going to make me tear up, I got to get ready for a game," an emotional Martinez said, his voice trembling. "Obviously a lot of different emotions today. Just very thankful, very appreciative."
The Blackhawks have two more games left, but Saturday was their last home game. It's also the final appearance for Chicago forward Pat Maroon, who announced his retirement plans earlier in the campaign.
Martinez, 37, won three Stanley Cups in his career: in 2012 and 2014 with the Kings and in 2023 with the Vegas Golden Knights.
His contributions to the 2014 Kings cannot be overstated. Martinez scored the series-clinching goal in Game 7 of the Western Conference Final against the Blackhawks before scoring the double-overtime winner in Game 5 of the Stanley Cup Final against the New York Rangers.
Martinez was not overly known for his offense, maxing out at 39 points in a season in 2016-17. But he was a stout defender and a fearless shot blocker. He finishes with 289 points and 1,884 blocks in 862 games across his 16-year NHL career.
