With the start of training camp rapidly approaching, the New Jersey Devils Organization and doctors have confirmed that veteran forward Ryane Clowe has retired from the National Hockey League. It is no longer safe for Clowe to play professional hockey, due to suffering from multiple concussions throughout his tenure playing in the NHL.
The St. John’s, Newfoundland native was drafted with the 175th overall selection in the 2001 entry level draft by the San Jose Sharks. After playing for San Jose for 8 professional seasons, Clowe was traded to the New York Rangers in the year 2013. The following year, the 6 ft. 2 winger signed a five year contract with the New Jersey Devils worth $24.25 million.
Although Clowe was expected to bolster the New Jersey Devils offensive production, the seasoned left-winger has played a limited amount of games in the last few hockey seasons due to a series of head injuries.
Clowe, 32, suffered two concussions during his first season with the New Jersey Devils. He wound up missing 39 games of the season. The following season, Clowe suffered another head injury against the St. Louis Blues. As a result, Clowe missed the following 69 games of the season.
Although Clowe has 3 years remaining on his current contract, general manager of the New Jersey Devils, Ray Shero, announced that New Jersey will “pay out the remaining three years on Clowe’s contract”.
As stated by Ryane Clowe himself, “I tried to work my way back. It just didn’t work out and I wasn’t able to play again. It’s just not possible and it won’t be possible moving forward”.
Clowe is responsible for tallying 225 assists and registering 130 goals during his tenure in the National Hockey League.
At this period in time, Ryane will not officially retire from the National Hockey League. However, Clowe will not play another game of professional hockey in his life. For the remainder of his contract with New Jersey, Clowe will be placed on the long term injured reserve list, and he will be paid in full.
Clowe has thoroughly enjoyed his time spent in the National Hockey League, and he looks forward to spending more time with his family and friends.
