Who Is Jordan Staal?
Jordan Staal is a Canadian professional ice hockey player who serves as captain of the Carolina Hurricanes in the National Hockey League (NHL). Born on September 10, 1988, in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada, Staal quickly emerged as one of hockey’s brightest young prospects. He was selected second overall by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 2006 NHL Draft.
Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing around 220 pounds, Staal combines size, defensive awareness, and offensive ability. Throughout his career, he has excelled in penalty-killing situations and has consistently been trusted against opposing teams’ top players.
His leadership qualities eventually earned him the captaincy of the Hurricanes, where he continues to play a vital role.
How Old Is Jordan Staal?
Jordan Staal was born on September 10, 1988. As of 2026, he is 37 years old.
Despite being in his late 30s, Staal continues to perform at a high level in the NHL. His durability, conditioning, and hockey intelligence have allowed him to remain an important contributor long after many players from his draft class retired.
Many hockey fans are surprised to learn that Staal is still active because he entered the NHL at just 18 years old. His lengthy career has spanned nearly two decades, making him one of the league’s most experienced veterans.
Jordan Staal’s Early Hockey Career
Before reaching the NHL, Jordan played junior hockey with the Peterborough Petes of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). His combination of size, skill, and maturity attracted significant attention from NHL scouts.
In the 2006 NHL Entry Draft, the Pittsburgh Penguins selected Staal second overall. This made him the second Staal brother to be drafted second overall, following older brother Eric Staal in 2003.
Jordan immediately jumped from junior hockey to the NHL, a rare accomplishment for a teenager. His rookie season quickly proved he belonged at the highest level.
Rookie Season Success
Jordan Staal’s rookie campaign in 2006-07 was historic.
He scored 29 goals and recorded 42 points while establishing himself as one of the league’s best young defensive forwards. During that season, he set several NHL records for youngest player achievements, including:
- Youngest player to score a hat trick
- Youngest player to score on a penalty shot
- Youngest player to score two shorthanded goals in a game
- Most shorthanded goals by a rookie in a season
His outstanding performance earned him a place on the NHL All-Rookie Team and made him a finalist for the Calder Trophy.
Jordan Staal and the Stanley Cup
One of the defining moments of Jordan Staal’s career came during the 2008-09 season.
Playing alongside stars such as Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin, Staal helped the Pittsburgh Penguins capture the Stanley Cup.
The Penguins defeated the Detroit Red Wings in a thrilling seven-game series. Staal contributed two goals and one assist during the Stanley Cup Final, playing a key role in Pittsburgh’s championship run.
To date, that Stanley Cup remains the only championship of his NHL career.
Although he has made numerous playoff appearances with Carolina, another championship has remained elusive. Nevertheless, Staal continues pursuing a second Stanley Cup as captain of the Hurricanes.
Career with the Carolina Hurricanes
In 2012, Jordan Staal was traded from Pittsburgh to Carolina.
The move reunited him with his older brother, Eric Staal, who was serving as captain of the Hurricanes at the time. Following the trade, Jordan signed a long-term contract and became one of the franchise’s foundational players.
His impact on the Hurricanes extended far beyond scoring.
Jordan became:
- One of the NHL’s best defensive centers
- A premier penalty killer
- A respected locker-room leader
- A reliable playoff performer
When Eric eventually left Carolina, Jordan stepped into a larger leadership role and later became team captain.
Under his leadership, the Hurricanes transformed into one of the NHL’s most consistent playoff teams.
Jordan Staal Stats
Jordan Staal has accumulated impressive career statistics over more than 20 NHL seasons.
According to StatMuse, he has recorded:
- More than 1,400 NHL games played
- Over 300 goals
- More than 400 assists
- Over 700 career points
- One Stanley Cup championship
His value extends beyond traditional scoring numbers.
Staal is widely regarded as one of hockey’s elite two-way forwards. Coaches consistently deploy him in defensive situations, faceoffs, penalty kills, and against opposing superstars.
His playoff statistics are equally impressive, with more than 160 postseason appearances throughout his career.
The Staal Brothers
The Staal family is one of hockey’s most famous families.
There are four Staal brothers:
- Eric Staal
- Marc Staal
- Jordan Staal
- Jared Staal
All four brothers signed NHL contracts and reached professional hockey. This remarkable achievement has made the Staal family one of the most celebrated hockey families in Canadian history.
The brothers grew up in Thunder Bay, Ontario, where they developed their skills on local rinks before eventually reaching the NHL.
Jordan Staal and Eric Staal
The relationship between Jordan and Eric Staal is particularly notable.
Eric, the oldest Staal brother, entered the NHL first after being selected second overall by Carolina in 2003. He went on to become one of the league’s top centers and captained the Hurricanes to a Stanley Cup victory in 2006.
Jordan followed a similar path:
- Second overall draft pick
- NHL center
- Team captain
- Stanley Cup champion
The brothers played together in Carolina after Jordan was acquired from Pittsburgh in 2012. Their reunion became one of the NHL’s most compelling family stories.
While Eric retired from professional hockey in 2024 and later joined the Buffalo Sabres front office, Jordan continues playing in the NHL.
Leadership and Playing Style
Jordan Staal has never been the flashiest player in hockey.
Instead, he built his reputation through consistency, responsibility, and hard work.
His strengths include:
Defensive Excellence
Staal routinely matches up against opposing stars and is trusted in late-game situations.
Faceoff Ability
Winning faceoffs has been a major part of his game throughout his career.
Penalty Killing
Few players have been more effective while shorthanded.
Physical Presence
At 6-foot-4, Staal uses his size effectively to protect the puck and win battles along the boards.
These qualities have made him invaluable to every team he has played for.
Recent Performance
Even at age 37, Staal continues contributing offensively while maintaining elite defensive value.
During recent seasons, he has remained a key component of Carolina’s success. In January 2025, he recorded a hat trick against Toronto, showcasing that he can still produce offensively when needed.
Fans and analysts frequently praise his longevity and leadership. Many view him as one of the most underrated players of his generation because his defensive contributions often receive less attention than scoring totals.
Legacy of Jordan Staal
Jordan Staal’s legacy is already secure.
His accomplishments include:
- Stanley Cup champion
- NHL All-Rookie Team selection
- Longtime NHL captain
- Over 1,400 games played
- One of the best defensive forwards of his era
- Member of one of hockey’s most successful families
While many players are remembered primarily for scoring, Staal will likely be remembered for leadership, reliability, and excellence in all areas of the game.
As one of the last active members of the famous Staal brothers, he continues adding to an already remarkable career.
Conclusion
Jordan Staal represents everything NHL teams value in a veteran leader. From winning a Stanley Cup with Pittsburgh to captaining Carolina, his career has been defined by consistency, toughness, and professionalism.
At 37 years old, he remains an important contributor for the Hurricanes and a respected figure across the hockey world. His journey alongside brothers Eric, Marc, and Jared has made the Staal family one of the NHL’s most iconic hockey dynasties.
Whether fans are searching for Jordan Staal’s age, stats, Stanley Cup history, or family background, one thing remains clear: Jordan Staal’s impact on the NHL extends far beyond the scoresheet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How old is Jordan Staal?
Jordan Staal was born on September 10, 1988. As of 2026, he is 37 years old.
Has Jordan Staal won a Stanley Cup?
Yes. Jordan Staal won the Stanley Cup with the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2009.
Who are Jordan Staal’s brothers?
Jordan’s brothers are Eric Staal, Marc Staal, and Jared Staal. All four played professional hockey and signed NHL contracts.
Is Jordan Staal related to Eric Staal?
Yes. Eric Staal is Jordan Staal’s older brother. They played together for the Carolina Hurricanes.
What position does Jordan Staal play?
Jordan Staal plays center and serves as captain of the Carolina Hurricanes.
How many NHL games has Jordan Staal played?
Jordan Staal has played more than 1,400 NHL games during his professional career.
Which teams has Jordan Staal played for?
Jordan Staal has played for the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Carolina Hurricanes.
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