Two-time Stanley Cup Champion and Barrie Colts alumnus Kyle Clifford retires

Former Barrie Colts star and two-time Stanley Cup champion Kyle Clifford has announced his retirement from professional hockey, closing the book on a 15-year career that saw him skate in more than 750 NHL games.

A Kitchener native, Clifford had his #13 retired by the Colts last season in recognition of his impact on the franchise. He spent three seasons in Barrie from 2007 to 2010 after being selected 37th overall in the second round of the 2007 OHL Priority Selection, appearing in 184 regular season contests and posting 100 points (44-55–100) along with 327 penalty minutes. 

In 2009, the Los Angeles Kings selected Clifford in the second-round pick (35th overall) of the NHL Draft. He went on to play 753 NHL games with the Kings, Toronto Maple Leafs, and St. Louis Blues, registering 144 points (66-78–144) and 905 penalty minutes. His physical presence and leadership became trademarks of his game, and he hoisted the Stanley Cup twice with the Kings – first in 2012 and then again in 2014. 

“Kyle Clifford defines what it means to be an underdog,” said Barrie Colts Owener and Prsident, Howie Campbell. “Throughout his career in Barrie and professionally, his work ethic has been unmatched. He’s had a terrific 15-year career professionally while winning the Stanley Cup twice which is an incredible feat.”

He has spent the past four seasons with the Toronto Maple Leafs organization, playing primarily with the AHL’s Toronto Marlies, where he wore an “A” as alternate captain over the past two years. In 2024-25, he recorded 8 points (4-4–8) and 32 penalty minutes in 17 regular season games.

With his playing career now complete, Clifford also announced that he will transition into a new role with the Maple Leafs, joining the club’s player development department for the upcoming season.

From a standout junior career in Barrie to raising hockey’s ultimate prize twice, he leaves the ice having made his mark at every level of the game and now looks forward to shaping the next generation of players.