Farewell to a Legend: NHL Star Jakub Voráček Hangs Up His Skates at 34

Author:

Anastasia Petkov

|Published: April 23rd, 2024

In an exclusive interview with CNN Prima News in Czechia, Jakub Voracek, a veteran NHL winger, formally announced his retirement at the age of 34.

Voracek's professional journey saw him play 11 games for the Columbus Blue Jackets during the 2022-23 season, contributing six points before a debilitating injury sidelined him.

Traded to the Arizona Coyotes in March 2023, he never took the ice for the team.

A pivotal moment in Voracek's career occurred on November 4, 2022, when he suffered a concussion from a high stick by Colorado Avalanche's Dryden Hunt, abruptly concluding his time on the ice.

Subsequently, the Coyotes placed him on long-term injured reserve, aiding them in meeting the league's salary floor requirements.

Renowned for his consistent scoring prowess, the 6-foot-2 forward, drafted seventh overall by the Blue Jackets in 2007, swiftly made his mark in the NHL.

His breakout season in 2013-14 with the Philadelphia Flyers, where he tallied 62 points, they catapulted him into the league's upper echelons.

Over the years, Voracek continued to impress, achieving personal bests in point production.

His illustrious career spanned 1,058 games, during which he amassed 223 goals and 806 points, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.

Despite bidding farewell to professional play, Voracek's impact extends beyond the NHL.

His international achievements, including a gold at the 2010 World Championship and a bronze the following year with Czechia, underscore his versatility and talent.

Transitioning into a coaching role, Voracek joined Jaromir Jagr's Rytiri Kladno franchise as an assistant coach for the 2023-24 season, embracing a new chapter in his storied career.