Dennis Seidenberg Officially Retires, Remains an Islander

You likely saw from a German media interview over the past week that former Islanders defenseman Dennis Seidenberg said he was definitely retiring. Now we know what he’s up to, as he joins the growing legion of late-career players who decide Long Island is a sweet place to be.

The Islanders announced today that, along with his retirement as a player, he has joined the team’s Player Development staff. That makes him one of the acquisitions from the previous regime that likewise impressed the new one under Lou Lamoriello.

You might remember Seidenberg as a veteran defenseman who also performed landlord duties for a young Mathew Barzal — not the last time he’ll be a steadying influence on an Isles’ future star, it seems.

But anyway, cheers to Seidenberg on a storied playing career that spanned 15 NHL seasons (859 regular season games), three Olympics with Team Germany, and one Stanley Cup ring with the Boston Bruins, back when the Bruins were capable of finishing such things.

His quote in the announcement is pretty sincere and deserves relaying in full here:

“After fifteen years of living my dream of playing in the NHL, I have decided it is time for me to retire from the game I love. It hasn’t been an easy decision, but I know it is the right one.

I want to take this opportunity to thank my coaches, teammates and the organizations I played with over the years. I have been lucky enough to represent my native Germany in three Olympic Games, an indescribable honor. There was no greater thrill than lifting the Stanley Cup with the Boston Bruins in 2011.

That group of guys will always hold a special place in my heart.

I want to thank the greatest fans of the best game in the world. I have never taken for granted what a privilege it is to play this game, and how the important the fans are. I will cherish the experiences and memories I have for the rest of my life.

Finally, I want to thank my family for all their support in letting me live out my dreams.

Thank you.”

He only saw 101 regular season games (27 points) with the Islanders but he quickly became part of the family. Now he’s part of the staff.

(check the replies for a message from another old friend)