Former Buffalo Sabres and Toronto Maple Leafs player Tyler Ennis announces retirement

Veteran forward Tyler Ennis announced his retirement from hockey on Tuesday.

Ennis, 34, posted a statement on Instagram in which he thanked the organizations he played for, his teammates and family.

The 5-foot-9 winger last appeared in the NHL as a member of the Ottawa Senators during the 2021-22 season, scoring eight goals and 24 points in 57 games.

“I want to thank the organizations I was fortunate to play for, especially the incredible equipment managers, medical teams, coaches, trainers and all the staff that made going to the rink every day so special,” Ennis said on Instagram. “To my teammates, it was an honor to be with you all and I am honored to share our lifelong brotherhood. Willie Desjardins and the Medicine Hat Tigers, Eustace King and O2K Sports Management, your help and guidance will always be appreciated and remembered.

“Finally, to my mom and dad. I am forever grateful for the sacrifices you made as I chased my dream. Your endless support has been the foundation of my hockey career. I love you both and look forward to the next chapter of our lives together. As I officially step away from hockey, I can’t help but feel grateful for the game that has given me so much – the greatest game on Earth.”

Ennis appeared in seven games with the Mannheim Eagles in Germany last season, recording five assists. He previously played for Bern SC in the National League in Switzerland in the 2022-23 season, recording 13 goals and 33 points in 37 games.

Ennis was drafted 26th overall by the Buffalo Sabres in 2008 and played eight seasons, scoring 97 goals and 236 points in 419 games.

He scored 144 goals and 356 points in 13 seasons while playing for the Sabres, Minnesota Wild, Toronto Maple Leafs, Senators and Edmonton Oilers.

The Edmonton-born player also represented Canada at the 2015 World Championships, where he scored four goals and six points, winning the gold medal.