Veteran defenseman retires after 12 seasons and 600 games in the NHL

Benn's NHL journey has often been viewed through the lens of his younger brother Jamie Benn, who has captained the Dallas Stars for many years. Despite never winning individual awards like his brother, Jordie built a solid career that deserves recognition.

Though he never reached superstar status, Benn's career is remarkable, especially considering he was never drafted. With over 607 regular-season games played, the 37-year-old defenseman amassed 137 points (26 goals, 111 assists) while playing for the Dallas Stars, Montreal Canadiens, Vancouver Canucks, Winnipeg Jets, Minnesota Wild, and Toronto Maple Leafs. He also registered four assists in 23 Stanley Cup Playoff games.

In honor of his retirement, the Dallas Stars acknowledged Jordie's contributions, posting a heartfelt message on social media.

Jordie Benn's path to the NHL was anything but conventional. Unlike his brother, who was drafted in the 5th round in 2007, Jordie went undrafted, making his climb to the NHL all the more impressive. Few undrafted players have logged as many games as Benn has, and even fewer receive tributes from the NHLPA upon retirement.

Though often deployed as a bottom-pair defenseman, Jordie Benn's defensive abilities cannot be overlooked. He excelled at shutting down opponents, finishing his career with a +19 rating-impressive for someone who faced tough matchups, often on underperforming teams.

Jordie Benn's hard-nosed style and reliability on the back end earned him the respect of teammates and fans alike. Though his career might not have had the flash of a star player, his contributions were vital to the teams he played for.

Benn can now enjoy a well-deserved retirement after an exceptional career in the NHL.

Source: Hockey Patrol
600-game veteran retires after 12 seasons as a defenseman in the NHL