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Come Fan with UsSaturday, June 20, 2026

Brendan Shanahan Will Reportedly Retire After 21 NHL Seasons

Kevin Allen of USA Today reported on Twitter that Brendan Shanahan is retiring.

But as the story came into focus, it has become apparent that Shanahan is not definitely retiring, just that he will not play for the Devils this year.

Devils blog Fire & Ice had the official statement from Shanahan, in which he says he’s leaving the Devils amicably:

“I have decided not to continue with the New Jersey Devils for my 22nd NHL season,” Shanahan said. “When I signed this past summer, Lou Lamoriello, Jacques Lemaire and I agreed that if I were unable to find a suitable fit in which I would be able to compete and contribute at the level I expect from myself, then I would simply step aside.

”I have great respect for Lou, Jacques, and the entire Devils’ organization. This decision is both mutual and amicable. I am planning to spend the next couple of weeks with my family to reflect on and evaluate my plans for the future.

Shanahan, 40, has spent 21 seasons in the NHL, including a 34-game comeback last year with the Devils last season.

More to follow as this develops.

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