Clutterbuck Trades Skates for Clubs, Eyes Golf Glory
NHL Iron Man Finds New Arena on the Fairway
After a decorated 16-season career in the NHL, notorious physical forward Cal Clutterbuck has hung up his skates. His retirement, announced April 23rd, marks the end of an era for fans of his hard-hitting style.
A Career Defined by Grit
Throughout his tenure with the Minnesota Wild and New York Islanders, **Clutterbuck** retired as the NHL’s all-time leader in hits. He amassed 293 points (143 goals, 150 assists) in 1,064 regular-season games. His playoff contributions included 20 points in 81 games, featuring two consecutive third-round appearances with the Islanders in 2020 and 2021.
Selected 72nd overall by Minnesota in the 2006 NHL Draft, **Clutterbuck** was traded to the Islanders in 2013. He became a core member of the famed “Identity Line” alongside **Matt Martin** and **Casey Cizikas**, a trio celebrated for their relentless energy and physicality.
Reflections on a Demanding Career
“I miss some of the things around playing hockey — being in the room and hanging out kind of feeling you’re a part of a group that’s trying accomplish something. But as far as like getting ready for 82 games a year and going out and playing the way that I was playing … I loved it, don’t get me wrong. I loved every minute of it. But there comes a point when you get removed from it for a year and you’re like, ‘Gosh, I’m not sure how I did that for that long.’ For me to go back to it, I’m not sure that’s a thing, so I don’t think about it that much.”
—Cal Clutterbuck
Reflecting on his demanding playing style, **Clutterbuck** acknowledges the physical toll. While he misses the camaraderie of the locker room, he finds himself questioning the sheer endurance required for an 82-game season after a year away from the grind.
New Passion: The Golf Course
Now, **Clutterbuck** is channeling his competitive spirit into golf, a sport he has pursued since his teenage years. He routinely tees off with former teammates and recently witnessed **Joe Pavelski** capture the American Century Celebrity Championship. **Pavelski’s** victory on his 41st birthday has ignited a desire in **Clutterbuck** to compete in the prestigious event.
“That would be cool,” **Clutterbuck** admitted. “I’ve been working on trying to get in there. … I’m not looking to get on the PGA Tour, but even the amateur circuit around here is really good. There’s a lot of great players.” He emphasized the different challenge of competitive play compared to casual rounds with friends.
The former NHL enforcer’s dedication to golf is evident, with aspirations extending beyond casual play. He finds value in testing his skills against other accomplished amateurs, seeking the unique challenge that a competitive golf environment provides.
To put **Clutterbuck’s** hockey career in perspective, consider that NHL players now average around 30 hits per 60 minutes of ice time, a stark contrast to the sheer volume **Clutterbuck** accumulated over his extensive career (NHL.com).
