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Bryan Little, a cornerstone of the Winnipeg Jets 2.0 franchise, is set to retire from the NHL in a fitting full-circle moment.
The former centre will sign a one-day contract with the Jets, allowing him to officially retire as a member of the team he spent his entire career with.
In a statement released on Friday morning, Little said he was grateful for the opportunity. "It’s a great honour that I can retire as a member of the Winnipeg Jets and end my playing career with the organization where I was drafted and played my entire NHL career," he said.
Reflecting on his time in Winnipeg, Little added, "I had the privilege to play in front of the amazing fans for nine seasons... it will truly be a full circle moment for my family and I to celebrate my retirement in the building where I have so many special memories.”
Drafted 12th overall by the Atlanta Thrashers in the 2006 NHL Draft, Little played all 843 of his NHL games with the Thrashers/Jets franchise, recording 521 points (217 goals, 304 assists). He ranks in the top five of several major categories in franchise history, including games played (2nd), goals (5th), assists (3rd), and points (4th). Little also represented Canada internationally, winning gold at the 2007 World Junior Championships.
Jets General Manager Kevin Cheveldayoff praised Little’s contributions to the team, stating, "Bryan Little is a crucial part of the history of this franchise... He was a humble, hardworking player that cared about his teammates and was a quiet, but important leader in the dressing room."
Little’s career, unfortunately, was cut short due to injury in November 2019. He underwent treatment for a punctured eardrum and concussion he suffered when it happened
He won the Dan Snyder Memorial Award twice, an honour given annually to the player who best embodies perseverance, dedication, and hard work for the benefit of his team.
The Jets will celebrate Little’s retirement alongside their fans on Oct. 20, when the Pittsburgh Penguins come to town.