Nichol retires to join Predators' front office

St. Louis Blues forward Scott Nichol, 38, announced his retirement Wednesday to accept a job as director of player development for the Nashville Predators.

"During the last few years of my playing career, working with the younger players was something I really got a lot of enjoyment out of," Nichol said. "It's a great opportunity for me and I'm excited to be a part of the Predators organization again and have the chance to work with David Poile and the Predators staff."

Nichol had one goal and 25 penalty minutes in 30 games with the Blues in 2012-13.

A 1993 11th-round pick of the Buffalo Sabres, Nichol had 56 goals and 127 points in 662 NHL games with the Sabres, Calgary Flames, Chicago Blackhawks, Predators, San Jose Sharks and Blues.

"As an organization that prides itself on developing homegrown talent, Scott Nichol will play a vital role in helping our prospects reach their full potential," Predators general manager David Poile said. "Scott was a player who had to work hard for everything in his career, and he will bring energy, enthusiasm and work ethic to this job. As a newly retired player he also has the ability to relate to players at all levels and help in their development."