Raffi Torres’ days as a professional hockey player appear to be over, according to the Stouffville Sun-Tribune.
At his best, Torres was one of the game’s best better checkers, able to deliver hits while chipping in offensively (he scored a career-high 27 goals in 2005-06). He made it to the Stanley Cup Final twice, losing as a member of the Edmonton Oilers and Vancouver Canucks.
At his worst, he was a frequently suspended enforcer, whose reckless play sent several players to the injured reserve list.
His 635-game career also had stops in Columbus, Buffalo, Arizona, San Jose, and New York after being drafted fifth overall by the Islanders in 2000.
The 35-year-old was sent to Toronto during last season’s trade deadline but never played for the organization. He joined Carolina on a professional tryout agreement in the off-season but couldn’t make the roster.
“It’s never easy to stop doing what you love to do,” said Torres. “I wanted to play one more year and when I went to Carolina I wanted to make sure I didn’t want to question myself. In the end I wanted to make sure if I could hold up or not.”
Torres’ career will end with 137 goals and added 123 assists.
