American hockey player T.J. Oshie formally announced his retirement on Monday, capping a 16-year NHL career with moments that will never be forgotten. He will always be remembered for his Stanley Cup championship win with the Washington Capitals.

The 38-year-old right winger made the announcement surrounded by fans, teammates, and executives at the Washington Harbour fountains — the same spot that saw him celebrate the Capitals' 2018 title.

T.J. Oshie's Emotional Goodbye in Washington, D.C.

T.J. Oshie Retires After 16 Iconic NHL Seasons T.J. Oshie Retires After 16 Iconic NHL Seasons
Patrick Smith/Getty Images

Oshie's retirement ceremony was historic for many fans. According to ESPN, it took place seven years to the day from the Capitals' record Stanley Cup party, when players went viral jumping into the fountains, celebrating a player who gave it his all on and off the ice.

Capitals President of Hockey Operations Brian MacLellan, GM Chris Patrick, head coach Spencer Carbery, and old teammates such as Nicklas Backstrom and John Carlson all attended to honor Oshie.

"I can't thank the Caps enough. Another first-class move by them to have my retirement here, invite all the people out. It really made this day special," Oshie said.

Chronic Injury Ends an Unforgettable Career

Although anticipated due to his chronic back problems, Oshie's retirement nonetheless stung his teammates and fans. He missed most of the 2023–24 season on long-term injured reserve and earlier said he'd only come back if a long-term fix for his back was discovered. His last appearance was on April 28, 2023, in a playoff game against the New York Rangers.

"I was fully prepared that could be my last game. I got the pictures taken of me taking off the skates to prove it," Oshie said.

From St. Louis to D.C.: Oshie's NHL Journey

Selected 24th overall by the St. Louis Blues in 2005, Oshie debuted in the NHL in 2008 and gained popularity among fans due to his speed, toughness, and shootout ability. Playing 1,116 regular season and playoff games, he accumulated 336 goals and 428 assists. However, his career took a turn with the trade to Washington in 2015.

Joining Alex Ovechkin and Nicklas Backstrom in the stars, Oshie became the anchor of a Capitals franchise that qualified for the playoffs in eight of nine years — and won the team's first Stanley Cup championship in 2018.

From the start, Oshie always credits his teammates, as he acknowledges that he could not have won the Stanley Cup without them.

Oshie's Biggest International Moment

Oshie's most significant moment internationally happened at the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics. He scored four of six times in the shootout to lead Team USA over host Russia in a wild preliminary round contest. The performance made him "T.J. Sochi" and earned him international acclaim.