Victoria-born defenceman Jordie Benn has officially announced his retirement from the National Hockey League (NHL), capping off a 17-year professional hockey career.
Known for his steady defensive play and versatility, Benn played in 607 NHL games, accumulating 137 points (26 goals, 111 assists), and an additional 23 playoff appearances throughout his career.
The 37-year-old began his NHL journey in 2011, signing as an undrafted free agent with the Dallas Stars. Benn carved out a role as a reliable defenceman, playing alongside his younger brother, Jamie Benn, who served as the Stars’ captain.
Over the years, Jordie suited up for several other NHL teams, including the Montreal Canadiens, Vancouver Canucks, Winnipeg Jets, Minnesota Wild, and Toronto Maple Leafs.
Jordie and his brother played minor hockey for the Peninsula Eagles on the Saanich Peninsula, before working their way up to the Peninsula Panthers of the Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League and eventually the Victoria Grizzlies of the BC Hockey League.
Benn climbed the professional ranks, signing an AHL contract with the Texas Stars in 2010-11, followed by a one-year NHL entry-level deal with Dallas for 2011-12. This began a six-year stint with Jordie and Jamie playing together in Dallas.
Jordie also played for the former Victoria Salmon Kings of the ECHL for one year.
Last season, after going unsigned by an NHL team, Benn played in Sweden with Brynäs IF.
