Max McCormick, a veteran hockey player, has announced his retirement from professional hockey, bringing an end to a 12-year career. McCormick's decision to retire comes after a challenging season marred by a chronic hip injury, which forced him to sit out the entire 2025-26 campaign. This injury, coupled with his age, likely played a significant role in his decision to hang up his skates.
What makes McCormick's career particularly interesting is his journey through the NHL and AHL. He began his professional career with the Ottawa Senators, where he spent his first season in the AHL's Binghamton Senators. Despite never leading the team in scoring, McCormick became a reliable secondary contributor, amassing 61 goals and 125 points in 254 AHL games over four and a half seasons. His time with the Senators also provided him with valuable NHL experience, as he played 71 games and scored 10 points from 2015 to 2019.
McCormick's career took an interesting turn when he was traded to the Colorado Avalanche in 2018. He spent two years with the Avalanche organization, primarily playing for their AHL affiliate, the Colorado Eagles. During this period, he had a brief but impactful NHL stint with the Carolina Hurricanes, contributing two goals and three points in 12 games. However, it was with the Seattle Kraken that McCormick found his second wind.
With the Kraken, McCormick had his best professional season, scoring 60 goals and 127 points in 139 games, helping the team reach the Calder Cup Finals twice. This impressive performance, coupled with his leadership as captain, solidified his legacy in the AHL. Despite his success, McCormick's career was cut short by his chronic hip injury, which has been a persistent issue over the past two years.
McCormick's retirement marks the end of a remarkable 12-year professional journey. He leaves behind a legacy of dedication, resilience, and skill, having played over 500 AHL games and 94 NHL games. His contributions to the sport, particularly his leadership and scoring prowess, will be remembered by fans and fellow players alike. As he moves on to the next chapter of his life, McCormick's impact on the hockey world will undoubtedly be felt for years to come.
