Injury Forces Three-Time Stanley Cup Champion to Retire

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Wade Messier
April 5, 2023 (2:47 PM)

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Niklas Hjalmarsson is one of Sweden's most accomplished hockey players, and a long time veteran of the game. He won three Stanley Cups with Chicago throughout his career, and is widely regarded as a key piece in Chicago's 2010's dynasty. Unfortunately for Hjalmarsson, his hockey playing days are likely over.

Hjalmarsson Calls It a Career

Hjalmarsson left the NHL in 2021 to return to his home country and play in the SHL for his youth club, HV71. His tenure in Sweden would be cut short, however, as Hjalmarsson suffered what appears to be a career ending injury in January.

A hit from Emil Larssons of Orebro would take Hjalmarsson out of HV71's lineup for the remainder of the season, and it looks like he's finally decided to call it a career.

Hjalmarsson had this to say when announcing his retirement from the game of hockey:

"It has taken a while, last week was the first time I felt completely one hundred percent. I was wondering and a little scared when it went on for so long. I will see if I come back to another role in the future. I love hockey, that's what I've done and that's what I can do. Some kind of coach would be exciting to try."

Despite the unfortunate end to Hjalmarsson's playing career, it seems like the Swede will look to continue his involvement with the game one way or another. Congrats on an amazing career, Niklas!

As Read On Markerzone - INJURY IN JANUARY ENDS THREE-TIME STANLEY CUP CHAMPION'S PLAYING CAREER