Griffins’ Daniel Cleary, a 20 year veteran in the AHL and NHL, retires after Calder Cup win

It looks like the long time Red Wing has finally hung up his skates officially. As the Grand Rapid Griffins’ celebrated their Calder Cup win, under the radar, Cleary announced his retirement.

While Cleary has been divisive to many, his longevity is one of the most impressive accomplishments in modern hockey. Outside of Jaromir Jagr, Cleary was a player that just kept going and going. He even continued to play after being demoted to the AHL. While he didn’t play this past season, it nonetheless is a fitting send off for Cleary. Finishing on top of the (minor) hockey world.

In 938 career games in the NHL, Cleary put up 387 points. That includes 165 goals and 222 assists. He did this all over the course of 20 seasons. At 38 years old, he has had a complete hockey life.

Given his career with the Red Wings’ organization, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him contributing elsewhere within the organization shortly.