Former NHL defenceman retires at 36, becomes coach
Despite not playing last season, it was unclear whether or not former National Hockey League defenceman Cody Franson was going to pursue other options or retire. But now we know.
On Thuraday, Franson was hired as an assistant coach by the American Hockey League's Iowa Wild, affiliate of the Minnesota Wild, signaling the end of his playing career.
"Coaching is something I have wanted to do for a long time and I am excited to get started," said Franson. "I am looking forward to contributing to player development and working with Coach McLean."
The Sicamous, British Columbia native appeared in 550 career games across parts of nine seasons in the NHL with the Nashville Predators, Toronto Maple Leafs, Buffalo Sabres and Chicago Blackhawks where he had 212 points (43 goals, 169 assists), 202 penalty minutes and was a minus-ten.
Franson's last season of professional hockey came during the 2021-22 campaign where he suited up in 61 games for the AHL's Hershey Bears.
Congratulations to Cody Franson on a great professional hockey career and all the best going forward with coaching!
Source: Iowa Wild
| POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 29 | 201 ANSWERS Former NHL defenceman retires at 36, becomes coach Were you a fan of Cody Franson during his playing days? | ||
| Yes | 46 | 22.9 % |
| Not really | 61 | 30.3 % |
| Didn't watch him much | 77 | 38.3 % |
| See Results | 17 | 8.5 % |
| List of polls | ||
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