Kraken F Yanni Gourde Nearly Quit Hockey Nine Years Ago

According to Bob Condor - Editor in Chief for the Seattle Kraken - Yanni Gourde nearly quit playing hockey nine years ago. In 2013, Gourde signed an ECHL contract with the Kalamazoo Wings after going undrafted for three straight summers.

Upon inking the deal, Gourde reportedly contemplated hanging up his skates and pursuing a degree in civil engineering. However, after conferring with his now-wife, he decided to give it one last kick at the can. And boy, did that decision ever pay off!

On top of winning two Stanley Cups with the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2020 and 2021, Gourde signed a six-year, $31 million contract with the Seattle Kraken and recently eclipsed his 400th career NHL game.

In those 400 games, Gourde has scored 103g - 141a - 244pts. It's safe to say that he made the right choice by sticking with the beautiful game.

MUST READ

10 hours ago  |  By Tom Banks Angry John Tortorella Calls Out One Flyers Player: Trade is Likely Per Elliotte Friedman

11 hours ago  |  By Tom Banks Quinn Hughes Ejected: Suspension May be Coming for the Reigning Norris Winner

12 hours ago  |  By Tom Banks Matvei Michkov Stuns With Crazy Quote in Post-Game Interview Following OT Winner

13 hours ago  |  By Tom Banks Jeremy Swayman on the Verge of Losing the Starting Role in Boston: His Contract Looks Like a Disaster

17 hours ago  |  By TJ Tucker Detroit Red Wings Place Massive Six-Foot-Six Forward on Waivers

18 hours ago  |  By Graham Montgomery Connor Bedard's Struggles Prove Chicago Blackhawks are in Dire Need of a Coaching Change

19 hours ago  |  By Graham Montgomery NHL Analyst Believes Toronto Maple Leafs are Exploring Possible Reunion With Nazem Kadri

21 hours ago  |  By Graham Montgomery 800-Game NHL Veteran Nick Bonino Signs an Unexpected New Professional Contract

MORE STORIES