After 1,249 NHL games spread across 17 years and three teams, veteran winger Scott Hartnell finally hung up the skates yesterday.
— Scott Hartnell (@Hartsy43) October 1, 2018
Acquired by the Blue Jackets in the summer of 2014 in exchange for RJ Umberger and a fourth-round pick, Hartnell immediately thrived in Columbus, putting up 28 goals and 60 points in his first year. His rough-and-tumble style of play was also apparent, as he reached the 100 penalty minute mark in each of his first two seasons with the team.
As the game got faster, though, Hartnell’s ice time decreased. His final season in Columbus (2016-17) saw him play fourth-line minutes (12:04 per game), but he still produced, putting up 37 points in that role.
Blue Jackets coach John Tortorella addressed Hartnell’s retirement yesterday, singing the praises of his former player.
"Scotty played the game the right way,” said Tortorella. "Not a great skater, wasn’t overly skilled, [still a] really good hockey player, but he found a way to make a difference each and every night when he played.
"I think a lot of young players can look at him and see that he’s not the most gifted but he had a will about him.”
Beyond his work ethic and on-ice production, Tortorella spoke about his appreciation for Hartnell’s personality and leadership – and his desire to see more players follow in his footsteps.
"He had personality on the ice, I think he became a really good leader as he’s gone through his career,” said Tortorella. "I just like the old school in him. We don’t have enough of the old school character guys that aren’t afraid to show personality.”
That personality certainly resonated with his teammates during his three-year tenure in Columbus. Cam Atkinson celebrated with Hartnell in person – and posted the footage on his Instagram account.
Atkinson wasn’t the only one of Hartnell’s former Columbus teammates to reach out on social media. Blue Jackets captain Nick Foligno shared a note of his own – which included an anecdote for the ages – as did Brandon Dubinsky and former Blue Jacket Matt Calvert.
@Hartsy43 pic.twitter.com/p8GJVw5HSP
— Nick Foligno (@NickFoligno) October 1, 2018
From one of my fiercest opponents to one of my best friends! What a crazy story! Unbelievable career brother! I couldn’t be happier and prouder of you @Hartsy43 much love! https://t.co/eM6UX1Q2Gz
— Brandon Dubinsky (@BDubi17) October 1, 2018
Congrats on a great career @Hartsy43! A true legend on and off the ice. Had the privilege of sitting beside this average card player for years on the plane. Keep on shootin Hartsy!!! #bordercity https://t.co/ZAmjYEweSJ
— Matt Calvert (@mattcalvert11) October 1, 2018
