The Islanders’ heart-and-soul fourth-liner who helped define the club’s most successful era since the Dynasty announced his retirement Tuesday

Matt Martin announced his retirement after 16 NHL seasons, all but two with the New York Islanders, a departure that leaves the league with only a few players who take the ice without a visor.

The 36-year-old announced the news on Tuesday afternoon, following his 15th season in the NHL. Martin, however, isn't completely leaving hockey; he'll remain with the New York Islanders as a special assistant to general manager and executive vice president Mathieu Darche.