Defenseman Duncan Keith has decided to retire and will therefore not return to the Edmonton Oilers next season.

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This was reported by a few sources, including the TSN network, on Friday. Thus, the 38-year-old veteran will give up the last year of his contract; his average annual salary was $5.4 million.

According to what had indicated the radio station TSN 1260, the general manager of the Oilers, Ken Holland, had asked Keith to give him an answer on his intentions by Saturday, question of better planning the continuation. As a result, the former Chicago Blackhawks will allow Edmonton to have more space under the salary cap.

Acquired from the Hawks on July 12, 2021, Keith amassed 21 points, including 20 assists, in 64 games during the last regular season, while maintaining a differential of 15. He won two career Norris Trophies (2009-2010 and 2013-2014), as well as the Conn-Smythe in 2014-2015. He collected 646 points in 1256 games.