Martin St. Louis says goodbye

Martin St. Louis said goodbye today in his retirement press conference.

He also shared why he was hanging up the skates when he stated “My heart wasn’t in it anymore.”

He actually had multiple offers to continue his career, but couldn’t imagine going through training again.

St. Louis also shared that his family and kids played a role in his decision.  He wants to spend more time with kids and coach them in their own hockey careers.  And he has family in New England where he plans to spend his time.

Will the Hall of Fame be the next stop for Martin?

My gut says it will.

He didn’t hit 1100 points or 400 goals which is a common HOF benchmark.  But with St. Louis, there is more to the story than the final point total.

He has a Stanley Cup Championship as well as numerous awards.  He also won the Art Ross in 2013 while leading the league in scoring.  And becoming the oldest player to do so.

Puck Daddy agrees that he is worthy of HOF consideration:

But it’s hard to imagine he doesn’t meet part of the standards, as a Stanley Cup champion in 2004 with the Lightning, as an inspiring player given his vertical challenges and as a dedicated professional (outside of his falling out with the Lightning).

Enjoy your retirement, Martin!

Image courtesy of kaatiya.