Kevin Hayes Retires From Hockey After Brief KHL Stint

Former NHL All-Star Kevin Hayes, who spent the early part of his career with the New York Rangers, has retired from professional hockey at age 34. Hayes announced his decision in a statement released by the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) on Monday, citing his inability to perform at his best due to physical limitations.

Hayes signed with Russia's AK Bars Kazan in August but played only five games, recording no points. His final game was on September 18, and he announced his retirement just before the team's scheduled game on Monday night.

"I have decided to end my hockey career," Hayes stated. "I can no longer play at the level I am capable of because my body does not allow me to perform at my best. And I cannot accept not being in top form."

Hayes began his NHL career with the Rangers, who acquired him after he was drafted by the Chicago Blackhawks in the first round of the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. He played over four seasons with the Rangers, accumulating 87 goals and 216 points in 361 regular-season games, and added two goals and 10 points in 34 playoff games. He was part of memorable postseason moments, including an overtime winner against the Pittsburgh Penguins in his rookie year.

In 2019, Hayes was traded to the Winnipeg Jets. He went on to play for the Philadelphia Flyers, St. Louis Blues, and Pittsburgh Penguins. During the 2022-23 season, he was named an All-Star while playing for the Flyers. Across his entire NHL career, Hayes played 861 games, scoring 193 goals and totaling 470 points.