Archive: By Playing To Age …, Mark Giordano Reached…
Archive: By Playing To Age …, Mark Giordano Reached…
In the 2023-24 NHL season, 40-year-old Mark Giordano was the league’s oldest player, playing for his hometown Toronto Maple Leafs.
This article from The Hockey News (Oct. 4, 2021) by Matt Larkin reflects on Giordano’s career, highlighting his only season with the Seattle Kraken.
Giordano spent 15 years with the Calgary Flames before being selected by the Kraken in the expansion draft, becoming their first captain. He later joined the Maple Leafs, where he continued to be a key leader.
Giordano emphasized maintaining functional strength over raw power, a strategy that allowed him to play effectively into his 40s.
He has yet to sign with a team for the 2024-25 season but feels accomplished having reached his goal of playing at age 40.
His career, marked by an unconventional path and significant community involvement, demonstrates resilience and adaptability.
Originally undrafted, Giordano’s journey included playing in Russia and achieving peak performance in his 30s, culminating in a Norris Trophy win in 2019.
His transition to the Kraken was a significant change after 15 years in Calgary, but his experience and leadership were invaluable to the new team.
Giordano remains committed to playing as long as he is physically fit and contributing to his team.
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