Nashville Predators defenseman Matt Carle has elected to retire after 12 seasons in the league.
The 32-year-old made the decision after the Predators placed him on unconditional waivers earlier in the day for the purpose of buying out his contract, according to Adam Vingan of the Tennessean.
"It has been an honor to be a player in the National Hockey League and play for four great organizations over the past 12 seasons," Carle said in a release. "At this time, I have decided to retire as a National Hockey League player. I want to thank the San Jose Sharks, Philadelphia Flyers, Tampa Bay Lightning, and the Nashville Predators for the opportunity to play for each organization. I would also like to thank all the fans that I have met throughout my career for the support that you have given me. Most importantly, I want to thank my family for all the sacrifices they have made on behalf of my career. My parents, brothers, and wife Clancey allowed me to focus on the pursuit of playing the best sport in the world, in the best League in the world, and I will always be grateful."
After putting up a career-low nine points in 64 games with the Lightning last season, the Predators took a gamble with Carle signing him to a one-year, $700,000 contract this offseason. Ultimately Carle played just six games with the club, prior to Friday's news.
"The Nashville Predators would like to congratulate defenseman Matt Carle on a successful and decorated hockey career," Predators general manager David Poile said. "In addition to 730 career NHL games and an All-Rookie Team selection in 2007, Matt is one of just four defensemen in the last 32 years to win the Hobey Baker Award as college hockey's top player, was a two-time NCAA Champion, a World Junior and World Under-18 Champion for the United States, and a World Championship medalist. We would like to thank Matt for his commitment and dedication to the game, and wish he and his family the best as they move into the next chapter of their lives."
Carle played parts of 12 seasons in the league, dressing in 730 games, tallying 45 goals and 283 points.
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