At Last, Mike Modano to Retire

• Some of y'all asked yesterday if the Stars would re-sign Modano before his official adios. Well, this just in: Frisco, Tex. – Stars General Manager Joe Nieuwendyk announced today that the NHL club will sign center Mike Modano to an official NHL contract, giving him the opportunity to officially retire as a Dallas Star. Modano will sign the contract at Friday’s press conference. Afterwards, he will send in his retirement paperwork to the National Hockey League. Full information on the press conference is listed below.   The amount listed on the contract will be $999,999 in honor of his No. 9.   “This is a special day for all of us,” said Nieuwendyk. “Mike Modano will always be the face of this franchise. He means so much to our organization and all of our fans. We wanted to give him the opportunity to retire as a Dallas Star. Mike has given his heart and soul to this game for over 30 years. On behalf of the entire organization and the National Hockey League, we would like to thank him for his dedication.”   Modano, 41 (born June 7, 1970 in Livonia, Mich.), is the all-time leading scorer among American-born players in NHL history in goals (561) and points (1,374). Playing 22 seasons in the National Hockey League, he was the first overall pick in the 1988 NHL Entry Draft by the Minnesota North Stars.

• I'll rack you for that one. Touching tribute.

• Thank you for all the great years and memories, Mikey Mo.  You're one of the all-time greats.

• All in favor?

• Congrats, Mo!  Now maybe you can spend a little time at that crappy pos restaurant named after you and Brett.

• What a great ride it's been!, is exactly what I'd say if Willa was my wifey. Stay Hard Mo!

• When asked whether he would retire as a Dallas Star, Rob Scichili told me via email: "We're simply helping him out with the press conference." When asked if and when the team will retire his number, he said: "I'm sure we will retire #9, but there is no timetable."

• I'll truly miss Mo. There may have not been a more classy athlete to come thru this area.

• I've actually asked the Stars if that's a possibility. And, about retiring the number. We'll see what they say.

• I second that.

• May his number 9 sweater forever flap in the breeze as skates into the next stage of his life. Thank you Mike for the wonderful memories. You were a great competitor and the sportsmanship you displayed will always be remembered.  Best of luck in the future.  

• The Stars need to sign him Thursday. Let him retire a Star!

• Cheers Mo!  The entire city thanks you for everything you've meant/brought to Dallas Stars. On a related note, how about that Dallas Stars front office job?

• And the 9 should be in the rafter before christmas

• Truly a legend. Thanks for the memories, Mo.

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