Andrew Cogliano retires, joins Avs front office
FILE PHOTO: Mar 30, 2024; Denver, Colorado, USA; Colorado Avalanche center Andrew Cogliano (11) looks on during the second period against the Nashville Predators at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Wevers-USA TODAY Sports/File Photo
Forward Andrew Cogliano announced Friday that he is retiring after 17 NHL seasons, and the Colorado Avalanche said he will move into the front office.
Cogliano, 37, spent the past three seasons playing for the Avalanche, capping a career in which he appeared in 1,294 regular-season games.
"The game of hockey has given me and my family so much and I am grateful for every moment," the Toronto native said. "I am blessed to have played for so long with some great organizations and amazing teammates. I will miss being with the guys in the dressing room and battling for each other on the ice every night but it's time to move on. Thank you to everyone I ever played with, played for and all the great fans for all of their support. I am excited to start my new chapter in the front office."
Cogliano tallied 464 points (190 goals, 274 assists) with the Edmonton Oilers (2007-11), Anaheim Ducks (2011-19), Dallas Stars (2019-21), San Jose Sharks (2021-22) and Colorado, which acquired him on March 21, 2022, for a fifth-round pick in the 2024 NHL Draft.
He played in 131 career postseason games and was part of the Colorado team that won the 2022 Stanley Cup.
Cogliano's career was highlighted by his durability. The former first-round draft pick played 830 consecutive games at the start of his career, not missing a game between Oct. 4, 2007, and Jan. 13, 2018. In all, he dressed for 98 percent of his teams' combined 1,321 games.
In his new role, he will work in player development, professional and amateur scouting, and with the Colorado Eagles of the American Hockey League.
"He is a true pro, a fierce competitor, a great teammate and leader, and a mentor for younger players," Avalanche general manager Chris MacFarland said of Cogliano. "He always set the example for the rest of the group with his hard work on and off the ice and his preparation and details. And while we will miss him on the ice, we couldn't be more excited to have him on board with our organization in this new role. He will be an invaluable resource with his unique knowledge of the game and his many years of experience to help the next generation of Avalanche players."
--Field Level Media