News Summary
Blake Wheeler, an accomplished NHL player, has officially announced his retirement after a 16-season career. Notable for his leadership and offensive skills, Wheeler played his final season with the New York Rangers. Despite facing injuries, he left an impactful legacy, ranking high in franchise achievements with the Winnipeg Jets. His remarkable career includes impressive scoring stats and participation in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, culminating in a decision to focus on family and personal fulfillment as he concludes his professional ice hockey journey.
Toronto, Canada — Blake Wheeler Announces Retirement after 16 NHL Seasons
Blake Wheeler, a prominent figure in professional ice hockey, officially announced his retirement from the National Hockey League (NHL) on Saturday, concluding a distinguished 16-season career. The veteran forward, aged 38, played his final season with the New York Rangers during the 2023-24 campaign.
Recent Performance and Injury
During the 2023-24 season, Wheeler contributed 21 points in 54 games, including nine goals and twelve assists. However, his season was cut short due to a significant injury sustained on February 15, 2024. The injury involved torn ligaments on both sides of his ankle and a broken fibula, which sidelined him for the remainder of the regular season. Despite this setback, Wheeler managed to return briefly for a single game in the NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs on May 28, 2024, facing the Florida Panthers before concluding his playing career.
Draft and Career Highlights
Wheeler was highly regarded from the start of his professional journey, having been selected by the Phoenix Coyotes in the first round (No. 5 overall) of the 2004 NHL Draft. Over the years, he amassed a total of 1,172 regular-season games, during which he scored 321 goals and tallied 622 assists—bringing his career total to 943 points. In addition to his regular-season achievements, Wheeler played in 66 Stanley Cup Playoff games, adding 10 goals and 35 assists for 45 points.
Payment and Team Movement
Most recently, Wheeler signed a one-year contract with the New York Rangers on July 1, 2023. His signing followed the Winnipeg Jets’ decision to buy out the final year of his previous five-year, $41.25 million contract. Throughout his NHL career, Wheeler played for four teams: the Boston Bruins, Atlanta Thrashers, Winnipeg Jets, and the Rangers.
Leadership and Records with Winnipeg Jets/Thrashers
Wheeler served as the captain of the Winnipeg Jets from 2016 to 2022 and is recognized as the franchise’s all-time leader in several categories. He ranks first in franchise history in games played (897), assists (550), and points (812). Additionally, he is fourth in franchise goals with 262.
Statistical Rankings and Recognitions
Among American-born NHL players, Wheeler is 26th in games played, 25th in goals, 11th in assists, and 14th in points in all-time league history. Notably, he recorded back-to-back seasons with 91 points in 2017-18 and 2018-19, earning selections to the NHL All-Star Game in both years.
Retirement and Personal Reflection
Following the conclusion of the 2023-24 season, Wheeler remained unsigned but publicly expressed a sense of peace regarding his decision to retire. He emphasized focusing on his family and personal life, reflecting a sense of fulfillment and contentment with the conclusion of his professional hockey career. Wheeler’s career is remembered for his leadership, offensive production, and significant contributions to his teams over the years.
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Additional Resources
- NHL: Blake Wheeler Retires
- Wikipedia: Blake Wheeler
- Forever Blueshirts: Wheeler Retires
- Google Search: Blake Wheeler Retirement
- The Hockey News: Wheeler Announces Retirement
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Blake Wheeler
- MSN: Veteran NHLer Retires
- Google News: Blake Wheeler NHL Retirement
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