Matt Martin has announced his retirement from the NHL after a 16-year career, predominantly with the New York Islanders. The 36-year-old forward, who recorded 178 points across 987 games, has also been appointed as a special assistant to the Islanders' general manager, Mathieu Darche. Known for his physical style of play, Martin led the league in hits for five consecutive seasons from 2011 to 2016, amassing a total of 3,936 hits, ranking second in NHL history.

The Islanders, who missed the playoffs this season with a record of 35-35-12, are set to have the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NHL Draft. The upcoming draft will take place at L.A. Live’s Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, offering a chance for the team to reshape its future.