Faceoff Factor

Could This Be It For Roberts?

Matt Bodenschatz | Pittsburgh Penguins

Jun 2, 03:06 PM | Hype this story!

Gary Roberts has seen and done it all in the NHL. He’s a warrior to say the least. But, at age 42, his career clearly is nearing the end.

“Deep down I know this is probably the last time for me,” Roberts said to Sportsnet.ca just before boarding the plane for the team’s flight to Detroit yesterday.

By “last time,” it was initially believed he meant last time in the Stanley Cup Finals, not last time playing in the NHL.

But then he became a little more reflective, possibly hinting at his retirement this summer.

“I’ve enjoyed playing here. The people have treated me great. It’s been a little embarrassing at times because I haven’t been as big a part of this season as I would have liked.”

Those words certainly seem as though he is putting serious thought into the possibility of calling it quits.

After all, he has been plagued by injury and illness, playing in just 38 games this year, 69 last year, and 58 the year before.

And, while the injuries that have sidelined him may not necessarily be career-threatening, it’s growing painfully obvious that his body just doesn’t have the ability to take the beating it once took.

So, while the Penguins finish of their season — whether it’s tonight or in a potential Game Six or Seven — realize that it could be the last time the “Hockey God” sports a professional hockey uniform.

If/when he hangs up his skates, the NHL will say good bye to a truly spirited competitor and team player. He may not be a superstar or even a Hall of Famer, but in the city of Pittsburgh, he will be forever remembered as a legend.

If this is the end, Penguins fans should feel thankful to have been so lucky to watch him compete for their team.