A former Colorado Avalanche forward has made a big decision, as Derick Brassard has announced his retirement after an impressive 16-year NHL career.
Brssard, 36, notably suffered a torn ligament in his ankle in March of the 2022-23 season while with the Ottawa Senators. He also did not sign with a club for this past season.
While speaking with La Presse's Mathias Brunet, Brassard shared that his ankle injury ultimately is the reason why he has decided to hang up the skates.
"I was starting to find [playing] heavy. I was often on the therapist’s table playing as many matches as possible. It’s frustrating when you’re not 100% for your match. I still scored 13 goals my final year. I could have pushed, but with the ankle, it was enough. I didn’t want to risk another operation."
Derick Brassard © John Hefti-USA TODAY Sports
It is understandable that Brassard opted to call it a career due to his ankle. He can certainly hold his head high, as not too many players last in the league for 16 years, especially as journeymen.
In 1,013 career NHL games split between the Columbus Blue Jackets, New York Rangers, Pittsburgh Penguins, Florida Panthers, Avalanche, New York Islanders, Arizona Coyotes, Philadelphia Flyers, Edmonton Oilers, and Senators, Brassard had 215 goals and 545 points.
