Ex-Bruins forward hangs up the skates after a 14-season NHL run
After 987 regular-season appearances, Craig Smith has officially retired, revealing the decision through Magnuson Hockey Agency.
To his former teammates, Smith expressed deep gratitude: “I always gave everything I had, night after night. The lifelong friendships built along the way will stay with me, and I’ll miss the locker room more than words can say.” He also offered heartfelt thanks to the teams that believed in him and gave him the chance to wear their crests — the Nashville Predators, Boston Bruins, Washington Capitals, Dallas Stars, Chicago Blackhawks, and Detroit Red Wings. “It was the greatest honor of my career. The future remains uncertain, but for now I’m excited to focus on family and the fresh start that the New Year brings.”
Smith spent three seasons with the Bruins from 2020 to 2023, a stretch that ended when he was traded to the Capitals in a deal that also brought Dmitry Orlov and Garnet Hathaway to Boston.
Over 14 NHL campaigns, he tallied 220 goals and 232 assists, leaving a lasting mark on every team he represented.
Contextual notes:
- Recent Bruins updates highlighted his injury status and other roster items ahead of upcoming road trips.
- His departure follows a period of broader sports coverage in the region, with concurrent pieces on the Red Sox and Celtics circulating around the same time.
About the reporter:
Lauren Campbell joined MassLive in 2023 as a breaking and trending Boston sports reporter, covering local and national stories. She also hosts MassLive’s Fenway Rundown podcast.
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