Buffalo Sabres: Brian Gionta retires from the NHL

Former Buffalo Sabres captain and Western New York native Brian Gionta retired on Monday afternoon after playing 1026 games over 16 NHL seasons.

Gionta, who was born in Rochester and played hockey at Boston College, was drafted in the 3rd round of the 1998 NHL draft by the New Jersey Devils. His 1026 games is 33rd all time and his 291 goals are 20th all time for American born hockey players.

Brian Gionta had a distinguished hockey career at the amateur and professional level. As captain of Boston College in his senior year, he was the top scorer in the nation and he led the Eagles to their first national championship in over 50 years.

Gionta spent his first 7 years in the NHL with the New Jersey Devils. He scored 20 goals 5 times including a career high 48 goals in 2005-06. His run with the Devils included a Stanley Cup in his second year with the organization.

From New Jersey, Gionta spent the next 5 seasons in Montreal. His numbers began to decline after 2 more 20 goal seasons however Gionta was named captain of the Canadiens, only the second American (Chris Chelios was the first) to be captain of the Habs.

Representing his country

Brian Gionta played 47 games for USA hockey, 13 games in the World Junior Championships and 34 games in the World Championships and Olympics. Overall Gionta netted 21 goals with 10 assists in international play. Gionta was the captain of Team USA in his final international tournament, the 2018 Winter Olympics.

Gionta joins the Sabres

Brian Gionta came home to Western New York on July 1, 2014 as he signed a 3 year contract with the Buffalo Sabres.

Gionta was team captain for his entire time with the Buffalo Sabres. Unfortuantely for Sabres fans, Gionta’s time in Buffalo was at the end of his career as his numbers never hit the levels they did earlier in his career. Gionta also played during one of the worst runs in Sabres’ history. The team had 4 coaches in his 3 seasons and never came close to making the playoffs.

"“To cap it off and come back to Western New York, my home area, and be able to play for your childhood team in the Sabres was also a highlight of my career.” – Brian Gionta"

Although the best year’s of his career were not with the Buffalo Sabres, Brian Gionta will be fondly remembered by Sabres fans. Additionally, the next stage of his career will see Gionta with a role in the Sabres organization. Gionta was involved with the 2018 Prospects Challenge and the team has said he will have a development role moving forward.

"“One of my main focuses is being around for my family, being able to go to their events and their sports and be a part of their lives. I still wanted to be a part of the game and wanted to be part of the organization.” – Brian Gionta"

What are your favorite Brian Gionta memories? Let us know in the comment section below.