Retired Number #35 (Pekka Rinne)
The wall behind Smashville's best stretch.
Number 35 hangs in the rafters of Bridgestone Arena. The Nashville Predators retired it for Pekka Rinne, the franchise's all-time winningest goaltender. Over 15 seasons he was the reason an expansion underdog became a perennial contender — elite stoppages, steady leadership, and a deep connection with the Nashville community that went well beyond game night. The crowd still goes quiet when they look up at that ribbon.
- Role
- Goaltender
- Affiliation
- Nashville Predators
- First Appears
- 2005–06 season
- Status
- Retired number (2022)
Lore & Background
Pekka Rinne's journey to becoming a Predators legend began as a late-round draft pick in 2004—an 8th-round afterthought who would become the franchise’s cornerstone. He emerged as the starter in the late 2000s, anchoring the team through its first deep playoff runs and earning a reputation for his athletic saves and calm demeanor. Beyond the stats, Rinne became the face of the franchise, known for his charity work and genuine affection for Nashville. His retirement in 2021 prompted an emotional farewell, and the number retirement ceremony in 2022 was a city-wide celebration. The banner serves as a reminder of the era when the Predators transformed from a small-market curiosity into a Stanley Cup contender, with Rinne as the last line of defense.
In Their Own Story
The arena lights dim, and a spotlight hits the ice as the crowd rises. On the jumbotron, highlights flash: a sprawling glove save, a stick save on a breakaway, a smile after a playoff win. Pekka Rinne skates to center ice, his family beside him, as the banner bearing #35 rises to the rafters. The roar is deafening—a city thanking its hero. For a moment, the ice feels sacred, and the number 35 becomes immortal.
Reader's Guide
The retirement of Pekka Rinne's number 35 is a milestone in Nashville Predators history, honoring the goaltender who defined the franchise's most successful era. The ceremony took place in 2022, following Rinne's retirement in 2021 after 15 seasons with the team. This achievement signifies Rinne's status as the first Predators player to have his number retired, a recognition of his record as the franchise leader in wins, shutouts, and games played by a goaltender. Rinne's impact extended beyond statistics; he was the emotional core of the team, leading them to their first Stanley Cup Final appearance in 2017 and winning the Vezina Trophy in 2018. The number retirement solidifies his legacy as a symbol of the Predators' growth from expansion novelty to legitimate contender, and it remains a permanent tribute in Bridgestone Arena, inspiring future generations of players and fans alike.
Did You Know?
- Pekka Rinne was selected by the Predators in the 8th round, 258th overall, in the 2004 NHL Entry Draft.
- He won the Vezina Trophy as the NHL's best goaltender in 2018.
- Rinne holds the franchise record for most career wins by a goaltender.
- He was a finalist for the Vezina Trophy three times (2011, 2015, 2018).
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