Chris Wideman Bids Farewell to NHL After Six Seasons Due to Injury Struggles

Chris Wideman has officially announced his retirement from professional hockey after six seasons in the NHL.

The 34-year-old defenceman leaves behind a respectable career, recording 20 goals and 58 assists across 291 games, playing for the Ottawa Senators, Edmonton Oilers, Florida Panthers, and Montreal Canadiens.

Wideman's final NHL season was in 2022-23, where he donned the Montreal Canadiens jersey, registering six assists in 46 games.

Unfortunately, Wideman faced a significant challenge during the 2023-24 season, missing all 82 games due to a persistent back injury.

His last official game took place on April 13, 2023.

Chris Wideman annonce sa retraite après six saisons dans la LNH.

Lire ↓ #GoHabsGo https://t.co/xZzgw9NQWz

— Canadiens Montréal (@CanadiensMTL) September 17, 2024

Heading into the new season as an unrestricted free agent, Wideman was still struggling with back pain.

In April 2024, he told La Presse's Simon-Olivier Lorange that his rehabilitation was ongoing and that he was uncertain about his future in professional hockey.

"After much thought, I have decided it is best for my health and my family to retire from playing hockey professionally," Wideman stated in a heartfelt letter shared by the Canadiens.

"I made numerous attempts at rehabilitation, therapy and many different treatments, but eventually it became apparent that returning to the game I love would not be possible."

Wideman took time to reflect on his career and the journey he's had, expressing gratitude to the teams he played for.

"I have had the opportunity to play for some amazing organizations throughout my career and I could not be more thankful to have had the chance to play for and retire with the Montreal Canadiens," he added.

Originally from St. Louis, Wideman's hockey journey began when the Ottawa Senators selected him in the fourth round (100th overall) of the 2009 NHL Entry Draft.

Before stepping onto NHL ice, he spent four years at Miami University (Ohio) and another three seasons in the American Hockey League (AHL) with the Binghamton Senators.

Wideman's career, though shortened by injury, showcased his dedication and passion for the sport.

His contributions to multiple NHL teams, especially the Canadiens, will be remembered fondly by fans and teammates alike.