Flyers’ Kapanen retires

Flyers forward Sami Kapanen announced his retirement today after 12 seasons in the NHL.

Kapanen, 34, had five goals and three assists in 74 regular season games this past season. He scored two goals in 16 games as the Flyers advanced to the Eastern Conference Finals.

In five seasons with the Flyers (2002-03 through 2007-08), Kapanen registered 44 goals and 66 assists for 110 points and 70 penalty minutes in 311 regular season games.

Kapanen was acquired by the Flyers, along with Ryan Bast, from the Carolina Hurricanes in exchange for Pavel Brendl and Bruno St. Jacques on February 7, 2003.

In 12 career seasons in the NHL (1995-96 through 2007-08) with the Hartford Whalers, Carolina and the Flyers, Kapanen recorded 189 goals and 269 assists for 458 points and 175 penalty minutes in 831 regular season games. He posted 35 points (13G,22A) and 22 penalty minutes in 87 career Stanley Cup Playoff games.

"Sami has been an integral part of the Flyers organization since joining the club in 2003," said Flyers general manager Paul Holmgren. "He was a tremendous leader, both on and off the ice, and was one of the hardest working competitors to play for the Flyers. As much as we will miss Sami, we accept his decision and wish nothing but the best for him and his family."