Cam Atkinson Announces Retirement from Professional Hockey
Cam Atkinson, a notable figure in professional hockey, has officially announced his retirement from the sport. The Columbus Blue Jackets have made arrangements for him to mark this transition by signing a one-day contract on October 16, allowing him to retire as a player for the team where he found significant success.
Legacy with the Columbus Blue Jackets
Atkinson, now 36, built a remarkable legacy during his decade-long tenure with Columbus, where he thrived as one of their key players. Over 627 games, he netted an impressive 213 goals and tallied a total of 402 points, leaving a notable mark with a plus-17 rating. His peak performance came during the 2018-19 NHL season when he achieved career-high statistics: 41 goals, 28 assists, and 69 points over 80 games.
Career Transition and Final Seasons
In July 2021, Atkinson made a notable shift in his career when he was traded to the Philadelphia Flyers in a deal that sent Jakub Voracek to the Blue Jackets. During his time with the Flyers, spanning two seasons and 143 games, Atkinson contributed 36 goals and 42 assists, accumulating a total of 78 points. However, his tenure with the Flyers ended when the team decided to buy out his contract in the summer of 2024.
Following his departure from Philadelphia, Atkinson joined the Tampa Bay Lightning, playing one last NHL season in 2024-25. With his retirement approaching, the decision to return to Columbus for a ceremonial contract is a fitting tribute to his impactful career and a nod to the organization and fans that supported him throughout his time there.
