All-time NHL hits leader Cal Clutterbuck retires from hockey

The NHL’s all-time hits leader is calling it quits.

Longtime enforcer Cal Clutterbuck announced his retirement from the sport on Wednesday, ending a 17-year career spent bashing opponents with the New York Islanders and Minnesota Wild.

“I’m beyond grateful for every teammate, coach, fan and moment along the way. Hockey gave me everything — a purpose, a brotherhood and a lifetime of memories,” Clutterbuck said in a social media post.

The 37-year-old from Welland, Ont., skated in 1,064 games and racked up 4,029 hits — the only player to ever cross the 4,000-hit plateau (though the NHL didn’t start tracking hits as a stat until 2005-06).

Clutterbuck also compiled 143 goals, 150 assists and 698 penalty minutes during a career in which he became a reliable fourth-line staple.

Over 11 years with the Islanders, he formed the so-called identity line with fellow grinders Matt Martin — second on the all-time hits list at 3,936 — and Casey Cizikas.

“To Matt and Casey — it was an honour to go to war with you night in and night out. What we built together means more than words can say. And to the Islanders faithful — your passion, loyalty and love made Long Island home. Thank you all. On to the next chapter,” Clutterbuck wrote.

Clutterbuck last played in the 2023-24 season, when he suited up for all 82 games as an Islander.

He was originally drafted by the Wild in the third round of the 2006 draft and made his debut there in 2007-08. He spent six seasons in Minnesota before finishing his career with 11 seasons with the Islanders.