The New York Rangers have been looking to add some key new pieces to their lineup in hopes of reaching their ultimate goal of lifting Lord Stanley at the end of next season. The team will now be able to add some more depth to their roster. On Friday morning, defenseman Kevin Klein announced his retirement from the NHL, and this move gives the Blueshirts an extra $3 million in cap space.
The 32-year-old Kitchener, Canada native played twelve seasons in the National Hockey League, totaling 627 games between the Nashville Predators and New York Rangers. His career stats include 38 goals, 116 assists, +22 rating, and 185 penalty minutes. His NHL debut came on December 3rd, 2005 against the Philadelphia Flyers and his first career goal came against the Chicago Blackhawks in January 2007.
He was acquired by the New York Rangers on January 22, 2014 from Nashville in exchange for defenseman Michael Del Zotto. He played a total of 224 games with the Blueshirts, and led all defensemen in even strength goals as well as game-winning goals from his Rangers’ debut in 2014 to the end of this past season.
Klein was drafted by the Nashville Predators in the second round of the 2003 NHL Draft. His determination, strength, and grit will never go unnoticed. Best wishes to Kevin on a happy retirement and good luck for his future plans!
