Former Toronto Maple Leafs Defenseman Retires Following 800-Game NHL Career

34-year-old NHL defenseman Tyson Barrie has been around the league quite a bit over the last decade or so, playing for five NHL franchises.

He started his career with the Colorado Avalanche prior to playing for the Toronto Maple Leafs for one season. He eventually went to the Edmonton Oilers and then played for the Nashville Predators.

Over the past couple of seasons, he has played with the Calgary Flames, although injuries have certainly kept him from reaching his previous heights.

Today, it was announced that the defenseman would be retiring from the NHL following a career in which he played 822 games and logged 508 points.

He only played 13 games with the Calgary Flames last season, and it was becoming clear that he wasn't going to be able to secure a job for the upcoming season.

Now, Barrie is choosing himself and his family. With this free time, he will be able to pursue a life and some hobbies outside of the arena.

Of course, there is always a chance that Barrie continues to work in hockey going forward. There are plenty of players who retire and then work in front offices.

Either way, it is sad to see the defenseman's career come to an end. He was a consummate professional who was loved by teammates. Moreover, he was a puck-moving defenseman who was essential to his teams.

No matter what, we imagine this decision was not made lightly, and you have to respect the player for recognizing it was time to move on.

We wish Barrie all the best in retirement.