Chicago Blackhawks defender Brent Seabrook announced Friday that his NHL career is over after 15 seasons.
“After several surgeries, countless hours of rehabilitation and training to get back on the ice at the level of my expectations, it will not be possible for me to continue playing hockey,” Seabrook said in a statement Friday. “It’s the best for me and my family.”
Seabrook, 35, has not played in an NHL game since November 2019. Over a period of three months from December 2019 to February 2020, he underwent surgery on his right shoulder as well as on both hips. The defender “adjusted” his back during a training session in January. Blackhawks team doctor Michael Terry said it’s a problem with the right hip that could prevent Seabrook from playing. Terry said the team “tried all available conservative treatments, and nothing worked well enough for him to lead his life as an athlete.”
Chicago put Seabrook on a long-term injured reserve. He was signed through the 2023-24 season with a $ 6.875 million cap and a complete no-move clause.
Seabrook, a Blackhawks first-choice pick in 2003, ended his career after playing 1,114 games and scoring 103 goals and 361 assists. Most important to Blackhawks fans, he played in 123 playoffs (20 goals, 39 shots) and helped the team win three Stanley Cups.
“Without Brent Seabrook, the Chicago Blackhawks would not have won three Stanley Cups,” said Stan Bowman, GM, Blackhawks, in a statement. but also one [of] the greatest Chicago Blackhawks of all time. We can not thank Brent enough for what he has done for the Blackhawks organization, the city of Chicago and this fan base. He will always be part of the Blackhawks family and we wish him well in hockey. ‘
The Blackhawks are currently being rebuilt, and Bowman told ESPN this summer that his team has a way to go before it can win sustainably again. There was a commitment to play more young players this season. However, the Blackhawks were one of the pleasant surprises in 2021. At 12-7-5, Chicago is in fourth place in the Central Division, which would qualify for the playoffs.
“I have sacrificed everything for this team in our quest to lift three Stanley Cups and given everything I had for you,” Seabrook said in a statement. “I could not have asked for a better fan base to play for. You, more than anyone, kept me honest and always pushed me to be better – while also cheering me on as your All-Star and Champion. in 2015 all the fans of the United Center will be a memory I will never forget.You really made Chicago a second home.My family and I will be forever grateful for your love and support and I look forward to always I always have a Blackhawk. ”