Brent Seabrook, who won 3 Stanley Cups with the Chicago Blackhawks, says his playing career is over after 15 seasons because of injuries: ‘After several surgeries … it will …
Brent Seabrook #BrentSeabrook
Through 15 seasons, Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Brent Seabrook had been as renown for his aggressive play on the ice as he had been for his toughness pushing through injuries.
He finally couldn’t push anymore.
The three-time Stanley Cup winner announced his retirement in a team statement Friday morning, shortly after the team placed him on long-term injured reserve with a hip injury. Forwards Andrew Shaw (concussion) and Zack Smith (back) also were added to LTIR.
Seabrook reflected on a career that included 103 goals and 361 in 1,114 games, the third most in team history.
“I am so proud to have played my entire 15-year National Hockey League career in Chicago with the Blackhawks,” Seabrook said. “It was an honor to play the game that I love, with teammates I love, in front of fans I love, in a city that my family and I have grown to love.
“After several surgeries, countless hours of rehab 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. This is what is best for me and my family. The love and support of my wife, Dayna, and my kids, Carter, Kenzie and Dylan has meant everything to me. My parents, Gary and Suzanne, and my brother Keith, have been behind me every step of the way and are my foundation.”
Seabrook underwent surgeries on his hips and right shoulder, team physician Dr. Michael Terry said, but said a “long-term issue” with the defenseman’s right hip prevents his return to hockey.
“Over a three-month period from December 2019 to February 2020, Brent underwent successful surgeries on both of his hips and his right shoulder,” Terry said. “He has worked extremely hard to recover from those surgeries but has a long-term issue with his right hip that is preventing him from playing professional hockey. We have tried all available conservative treatments, and nothing has worked well enough for him to live life as an athlete. We support his decision to prioritize his long-term physical health.”
Seabrook thanked the Wirtz family, owners of the Hawks, as well as president of hockey operations Stan Bowman and coach Jeremy Colliton for their support during his recuperation.
Seabrook participated in summer training camp but opted not to play during the Hawks’ postseason run in the Edmonton bubble. He hasn’t played in a game since Dec. 15, 2019.
“I’m thankful for all that the Blackhawks have done for me and my career,” he said. “This organization drafted me as an 18-year-old kid out of western Canada and this team became my family away from home. In addition, I’m thankful for the Blackhawks medical and training staff for always putting me in the best position to succeed on the ice.”
Seabrook said it was an honor to wear a Hawks sweater and thanked fans.
“I sacrificed everything for this team in our quest to lift three Stanley Cups and gave it everything I had for you. I couldn’t 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 as your All-Star and Champion.
“Lifting the Stanley Cup in 2015 in front of all the fans at the United Center will be a memory I’ll never forget. You have truly made Chicago a second home. My family and I will be forever grateful for your love and support and I look forward to always having a special connection with you the fans. I will always be a Blackhawk.”