Cheechoo Retires: Rocket Richard Winner Ends 17-Year Pro Career
Jonathan Cheechoo
On March 6, 2018, Jonathan Cheechoo announced his retirement from professional hockey at age 37. That ended a 17-season career that took him from Moose Factory, Ontario, to the top of the NHL's scoring list.
A member of the Moose Cree First Nation, Cheechoo grew up on an island in northern Ontario. At 12, he wrote down his goal of becoming a star for the San Jose Sharks. The Sharks drafted him 29th overall in 1998.
His breakout came in 2005-06. After the Sharks traded for Joe Thornton, Cheechoo scored 56 goals and 93 points and won the Rocket Richard Trophy. He is still the only Shark to win it, and he still holds the franchise records for goals and hat tricks in a season.
He played 560 NHL games, including playoffs, with San Jose and Ottawa, and scored 186 goals. He spent his final four seasons in the KHL.
“I'd like to thank my agent, Thane Campbell, for his support, guidance and belief in me along the journey,” said Cheechoo. “And to all of the incredible fans - your faithful support give us strength and energy to play with passion each night.”
“To the community of Moose Factory - my extended family - thank you for your support and encouragement. It was a thrill to represent you all,” he added.
Sharks GM Doug Wilson called him "one of the most beloved players in Sharks history." San Jose honoured him with a ceremonial faceoff on March 24.
Also see these full stories:
San Jose Sharks Great Jonathan Cheechoo Announces His Retirement
Anishinabek News - Former Sharks right-winger hangs up the skates