Veteran NHL defenseman unexpectedly announces his retirement from the NHL during the season

NHL insider Renaud Lavoie first reported the news sharing a video of Scandella talking with a member of the St. Louis Blues training staff marking the end of his long career in professional hockey.

Scandella drafted 55th overall by the Minnesota Wild in the 2008 NHL Draft played 784 NHL games scoring 30 goals & 119 assists. Throughout his career he suited up for the Minnesota Wild, Buffalo Sabres, Montreal Canadiens & St. Louis Blues where he was known as a reliable & steady defenseman though not widely recognized as a star.

While he never won a Stanley Cup Scandella found success internationally winning a gold medal with Team Canada in the 2008 U-18 World Championship
& a silver in the 2010 World Junior Championship.

Beyond the stats, Scandella earned respect across the league for his work ethic, professionalism, and ability to shut down top opposing players. His teammates & coaches valued him for his dependable presence on the blue line & his high character on & off the ice.

As he retires Scandella leaves a legacy built on consistency & dedication achieving much through his commitment to the game. Though he didn't claim an NHL title, his career was defined by solid contributions at both league and international levels. We wish him all the best in this new chapter of life.