Detroit — Red Wings veteran forward Kirk Maltby retired from hockey Tuesday, making the announcement during an emotional press conference at Joe Louis Arena. Maltby, 37, played 16 NHL seasons and appeared in 1,072 games, winning four Stanley Cups. "It exceeded any personal or team goals I could have set," said Maltby of his career, which began with two seasons with the Edmonton Oilers before being traded to the Wings. "It's gone much better than planned. I don’t think there's anything I would have taken back."Maltby will take a pro scouting position with the Wings. Maltby signed a two-way contract in the summer and knew the chances of making Wings roster were slim. He said he was comfortable with his decision to retire; he wants to spend more time with his family. "It's nothing against Grand Rapids or the American League," said Maltby, who played in the AHL and won a title there with Edmonton's farm club. “But back then I was 20 years old and I had no kids and I hadn't won Stanley Cups. I'm comfortable with my decision.”
I already gave Malt his love the other night when I wanted Bertuzzi to sit so he could get one last skate in as a Wing, but it's great to see him get a scouting job as well. The Wings are one of those last franchises that runs as a family and is still successful. Malt is a big part of that family and I look forward to seeing his smiling bearded face around the Joe come playoff time.
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