Ex-Maple Leafs Defenseman Announces Retirement at the Age of 34

As we continue to trudge through the dog days of summer, noteworthy hockey news is sparse. Thankfully, with training camps just a couple of weeks away, things are going to begin to ramp up across the NHL.

On Monday, the day has kicked off with somewhat of a surprising announcement involving a former Maple Leafs defenseman, Tyson Barrie, announcing that he is officially ending his NHL career, and retiring at just 34 years of age.

Barrie was often criticized during his playing time, and especially during his time in Toronto, for his lack of defensive awareness and constantly being exposed as somewhat of a weaker defender. However, it's tough to argue with the offensive success he was able to enjoy over the years.

While his name will always be associated with the very unpopular Nazem Kadri trade in Toronto, Barrie only lasted 1 year in the blue and white, accumulating just 5 goals and 39 points in 70 games.

However, the Victoria, BC native enjoyed three 50-plus point seasons in his career, highlighted by a sensational 59-point season with the Colorado Avalanche in 2018-19.

In all, Barrie racked up 110 goals and 508 career NHL points with stops in Colorado, Toronto, Edmonton, Nashville and Calgary.

All the best to Tyson and his family following his retirement announcement. While it hasn't been made public what he intends to do in life after hockey, one can only assume he'll find a way to remain close to the game he loves.