New Jersey Devils goalkeeper Corey Crawford announced his retirement on Saturday, after taking an indefinite leave of absence from the team on Friday for personal reasons.
“I have been fortunate to have a long career playing professional hockey to live a life. I wanted to continue my career, but I believe I have given everything to the game of hockey, and I Has decided that it is time to retire, ”Crawford said in a statement released on Saturday. “I would like to thank the New Jersey Devils organization for understanding and supporting my decision.
“I would like to thank the Chicago Blackhawks organization for giving me the opportunity to live my childhood dream. I am proud to be part of winning two Stanley Cups in Chicago. I thank all my teammates and coaches throughout the year. Thanks to the fans who made this great game what it is. I am happy and excited to move on to the next chapter of my life with my family. “
Crawford, 36, who signed a two-year pact with the Devils, who had not practiced offshines in the past one month at an average annual value of $ 3.9 million since the training camp opened last week. Her absence was previously described as “maintenance days” by coach Lindy Ruff, before the team said she was taking individual days on Wednesday and Thursday.
He was the Blackhawks’ starting goalkeeper since 2010-11 – and gave him two assists for the Stanley Cup Championship – but the team decided not to re-sign him this offseason.
Crawford finished his Blackhawks career third in franchise history with 260 career wins, surpassing Tony Esposito and Glenn Hall. Crosford is the Blackhawks’ franchise leader in postseason wins (52) and is the only goalkeeper in team history with multiple Stanner Cups.
The Devils have 24-year-old goalkeeper McKenzie Blackwood, who was awarded a $ 8.4 million contract for three years before training camp. He also has three other goals on his camp roster – Scott Wedgewood (24 games of NHL experience), Giles Cern (two games) and Evan Cormier, who have not played an NHL game.
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