Mike Grier calls it quits after 14 seasons and no new job offers

Dec 1, 2011, 1:04 PM EDT

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Mike Grier probably didn’t want to go out like this but after 14 seasons in the NHL, he’s calling it quits. In a career that saw him start and end with the Buffalo Sabres — while playing in Edmonton, San Jose, and Washington in between — Grier was the consummate grinder.

Grier would never win nor play for a Stanley Cup, but his value to his teams was immense. After coming out of Boston University where he was a physical menace with a powerful goal scoring ability, his game adapted well to the NHL.

While he was able to score a few goals early on, he changed into a solid checking forward. That ability to fit into the game and the systems he played is what made him such a true professional.

All that ability, unfortunately, wasn’t enough to see him land a new job this offseason as Grier’s final games were played against the Flyers in the playoffs last season. If nothing else, Grier leaves the game with a hard-hitting legacy that won’t be forgotten.

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5 Comments (Feed for Comments)

icelovinbrotha215 - Dec 1, 2011 at 1:57 PM

Always nice to watch him play. A class act who always gave 100%.
govtminion - Dec 1, 2011 at 2:17 PM

Pity he’s walking away, but he was a great player. His grit would have been a great thing for Buffalo to have a few weeks ago, can’t understand why they’re not interested in another year with him.
hague507 - Dec 1, 2011 at 2:26 PM

Always sad to see a guy retire like that. Better that he would have accepted it on his own.
ballsohardu - Dec 1, 2011 at 3:18 PM

Will be missed. Was a fan favorite in buffalo. Fear the grier!
nhlbruins90 - Dec 1, 2011 at 3:51 PM

Heck of a career. Always fun to watch him play.