Ex Flyer reveals how to stay in the NHL

As a hockey player, Thompson played between the ages of four and 38 and retired after 15 seasons after being drafted by the Boston Bruins in the 6th round in 2003. Thompson was born in Alaska and played for the New York Islanders, Tampa Bay Lightning, Anaheim Ducks, Ottawa Senators, Los Angeles Kings, Montreal Canadiens, Winnipeg Jets, and the Philadelphia Flyers.

During the recent episode of Empty Netters podcast, Thompson shared some wisdom with one of his coaches about staying in the league long term, acknowledging that he might not be considered a top-six level player.

It was according to Thompson's coaches at the time, Rob Murray and Scott Gordon, that Thompson should take a defensive approach to the game, be good at penalty killing, win face-offs, play a heavy and physical game, and always stand up for his teammates, if he wanted to stay in the NHL long-term.

In his career, Thompson played 844 games and scored 164 points, including 65 goals and 99 assists. He also accrued 401 penalty minutes. During his 86 playoff games, he contributed 21 points, with eight goals and 13 assists.