Jonathan Quick, the veteran goaltender for the New York Rangers, has announced his retirement at age 40. His final NHL start comes Monday night against the Florida Panthers in Sunrise, marking his 921st appearance including playoffs.[1][2] Quick spent nearly two decades as one of the league’s elite netminders, backstopping teams to three Stanley Cup championships.
Rangers general manager Chris Drury praised Quick’s impact. “He earned the respect of his teammates, coaches and staff members through his work ethic and dedication to his craft,” Drury said in a statement. “Jonathan is a special person and player, and the entire Rangers organization wishes him — along with his wife, Jackie, and three children, Madison, Carter and Cash — all the best in retirement.”[2]
From Milford to the NHL draft
Born in Milford, Connecticut, on January 21, 1986, Quick grew up playing hockey in the New England area. He honed his skills at Hamden High School and Avon Old Farms before entering juniors. Quick’s talent caught the eye of scouts early.[1]
The Los Angeles Kings selected him in the third round, 72nd overall, of the 2005 NHL draft. Quick began his professional career in the minors, splitting time between the ECHL and AHL. By 2007, he earned a spot as the Kings’ backup, gradually taking over as the starter.
His breakout came in the 2009-10 season, posting a .922 save percentage. Quick’s butterfly style and quick reflexes made him a fan favorite in LA. He solidified his role during the 2010-11 campaign, leading the Kings to their first deep playoff run.
Quick’s work ethic set him apart from the start. Teammates noted his preparation and competitiveness in practice. This foundation propelled him toward stardom.
Milestones piled up quickly. By his mid-20s, he was among the league’s top goaltenders in goals-against average and save percentage.
Stanley Cup triumphs with the Kings
Quick’s peak years defined the Kings’ golden era. In 2012, he led Los Angeles from the eighth seed to the franchise’s first Cup. His playoff dominance earned the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP.[1]
That postseason, Quick went 16-4 with a 1.41 GAA and .946 save percentage, the best single-playoff stats in NHL history. He posted three shutouts and stonewalled opponents in clutch moments. The Kings repeated in 2014, with Quick again pivotal.
He won the William M. Jennings Trophy in 2014 for fewest team goals allowed. Quick shared it in 2018, though injuries limited him that year. His regular-season stats during this span: over .920 save percentage multiple times.
- 2011-12 playoffs: 20 GP, 16-4, 1.41 GAA, .946 SV%, 3 SHO
- 2013-14 playoffs: Key wins in Cup Final vs. Rangers
- Career with Kings: Backbone of two Cups, 300+ wins
Quick’s intensity shone in big games. He faced 72 shots in one playoff match, turning away most. Fans chanted his name at Staples Center.
These victories cemented his legacy. Quick became synonymous with Kings hockey.
International stage and later accolades
Quick represented Team USA at the 2014 Sochi Olympics as the starter. He posted a 3-2 record with a 2.17 GAA and .923 save percentage, helping secure fourth place.[2]
He also played in the 2016 World Cup of Hockey. Quick’s international experience added to his resume as America’s top American-born goalie.
Back in the NHL, Quick hit milestones. In February 2025, he became the first U.S.-born netminder with 400 wins. He passed Ryan Miller for most wins by an American goalie in 2024.[1]
Shutout records followed. Quick surpassed Mike Richter and later Henrik Lundqvist among Americans.
His durability impressed. Over 800 regular-season games, he maintained a .910 career save percentage and 2.51 GAA.
Trades, Vegas Cup, and Rangers backup role
The Kings traded Quick in 2022 amid cap issues, first to Columbus then Vegas. As a backup, he earned a third ring in 2023.[1] Vegas coach Bruce Cassidy called him “awesome” for his veteran presence.
Quick signed with the Rangers in 2023 as Igor Shesterkin’s backup on a one-year, $1.55 million deal. In 2025-26, he appeared in 24 games with a 6-16-2 record, 3.09 GAA, and .893 SV%.[3]
At 40, Quick embraced the mentor role. He provided stability during Rangers’ struggles. His final season showcased resilience.
For full stats, check his profile on Hockey-Reference.[3]
Career stats and enduring legacy
Quick’s numbers speak volumes. Regular season: 828 GP, 410 W, 306 L, 90 OTL, 65 SHO, 2.51 GAA, .910 SV%.[4] Playoffs: 92 GP, 49-43, 10 SHO, 2.31 GAA, .921 SV%.
- Awards: Conn Smythe (2012), Jennings (2014, 2018), NHL 2nd All-Star (2012), 2x All-Star
- Cups: 3 (2012, 2014 Kings; 2023 VGK)
- Records: Winningest U.S.-born goalie, top American shutouts
Details on his career available at his ESPN page.[4]
Quick’s legacy rivals the greats. His clutch play in playoffs sets him apart.
As the puck drops one last time, Quick leaves as a Hall of Fame candidate. The NHL loses a warrior, but his influence endures in goalies who followed. Retirement opens new chapters, perhaps coaching or front office. Rangers fans cherish his time in blue.[2]
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Par Mike Jonderson
Mike Jonderson is a passionate hockey analyst and expert in advanced NHL statistics. A former college player and mathematics graduate, he combines his understanding of the game with technical expertise to develop innovative predictive models and contribute to the evolution of modern hockey analytics.