A Final Chapter in Austria
Jan Mursak, the 38‑year‑old Slovenian forward who once skated for the Detroit Red Wings, announced that he will spend his last professional season with EC‑KAC in Austria, opting to delay retirement after the club’s persuasive overture.
Having weighed the prospect of ending his career, Mursak cited the team’s ambitious championship outlook and the personal connection he feels with the organization as decisive factors in his choice.
Mursak’s résumé includes a four‑year NHL stint with Detroit, a Calder Cup triumph with the AHL’s Grand Rapids Griffins in 2012‑13, and appearances for Slovenia at two Winter Olympics, where he also captained the side at the 2018 Games.
The new contract guarantees him a player‑development position with EC‑KAC for the season after his final campaign, a role that will let him shape the next generation of Austrian talent while still contributing on the ice.
General Manager Oliver Pilloni praised the forward’s impact, noting that Mursak’s presence extends beyond statistics to a lasting influence on the club’s culture and regional ties.
Pilloni added that the organization is delighted to retain a figure of Mursak’s stature, both as a mentor and as a symbol of the club’s connection to its supporters.
The move underscores a broader trend of seasoned internationals seeking meaningful endings to their careers in Europe, blending competitive ambition with community engagement.