NHL News: San Jose Sharks Evgeni Nabokov Announces Retirement

Evgeni Nabokov returned to the National Hockey League, or NHL, team where he started his career 15 years ago and then announced his retirement from the league. Nabokov made it official on Wednesday capping a colourful NHL career highlighted by franchise-leading numbers for the San Jose Sharks.

"It means a lot that this circle is coming to an end and I'm happy I will retire as a Shark," Nabokov told the press during his announcement and in the team’s official website. "The only thing that's missing is a Stanley Cup, I think the management is doing everything they possibly can. It was up to us as players to win it. We failed. Hopefully one day we can celebrate.”

The 39 year old Nabokov, who was teary-eyed during the press conference, is the Shark’s franchise leader in games played for a goalie with 563 games played, leader in goalie wins with 154 and leader in game shutouts with 50.
 Sharks general manager Doug Wilson wanted to give Nabokov the proper farewell by acquiring Nabokov from the Tampa Bay Lightning, who waived him earlier in the season. The move assured that Nabokov will retire from the league as a Shark.

Sharks defenseman Scott Hannan credited Nabokov for playing calm under pressure and his confidence in becoming an elite goaltender for the team and in his career. Goaltending coach Wayne Thomas described Nabokov as an intelligent person and one who was a great competitor who challenged his teammates. Aside from playing for the Sharks, which drafted him 219th overall in the NHL Draft, Nabokov also suited up for the New York Islanders and Lightning. in the NHL. He also played outside the league including stints with Torpedo Ust-Kamenogorsk, Dynamo Moscow, Metallurg Magnitogorsk and SKA Saint Petersburg.

Among his achievements include winning the Calder Memorial Trophy in 2001 and was also named to the NHL All-Rookie Team that year. He had two appearances in the NHL All-Star Game in 2001 and 2008 and was also the Best Goalkeeper in the 2008 2008 Men's World Ice Hockey Championships.

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