Sami Kapanen Retired

According to Bill Meltzer of HockeyBuzz, Flyers forward Sami Kapanen has retired from the NHL and signed with a team in the Finnish Elite League.

A report in Kuopio-based newspaper Savon Sanomat quoted Kapanen as saying that he informed the Flyers yesterday of his decision. Kapanen confirmed the report via email today.

"It's true. I'm retiring from the NHL and planning to play for KalPa in Finland. ...I will miss the Flyers but it's time to move on," wrote Kapanen.

Kapanen was scheduled to make $1.25 million next season and his retirement gives the Flyers much needed cap space.

In 4 1/3 years with the Flyers, Kapanen recorded 44 goals and 66 assists. He never returned to his 20 goal status that he saw in Carolina.

We'll miss you Sami, but this move was best for both the team and the player.