Calgary Flames defenceman Michael Stone announced on Wednesday that he will retire from the NHL and join the Flames in a player development role, effective immediately.
Stone, 33, appeared in 552 NHL games, including 229 with the Flames, netting 41 goals and 145 points across 12 seasons. He was a fan-favourite in Calgary, known for his massive slapshot.
In his new player development role, Stone will join director of player development Ray Edwards and his staff including Martin Gelinas, Darren Rommerdahl, Rebecca Johnston, Danielle Fujita and Rick Davis.
“I feel very happy to be able to leave the game the way I have and directly into this role with the Flames organization,” Stone said. “I’m looking forward to working with the young defencemen and help them achieve their ultimate goal of playing with the Calgary Flames.”
The Flames selected two defenceman — Etienne Morin in the second round and Axel Hurtig — in the 2023 Draft and Stone will pivot to assisting their development as they work their way through the organization.
Despite being selected by the Phoenix Coyotes in 2008, Stone’s ties with the city of Calgary run deep, as he had an All-Star junior career playing for the WHL’s Calgary Hitmen.
Stone’s younger brother, Mark, captained the Vegas Golden Knights to their first Stanley Cup this past season.