Blackhawks’ Andrew Shaw announces retirementon April 26, 2021 at 2:41 pm

The Blackhawks’ Andrew Shaw announced his retirement Monday morning after doctors recommended he leave the game after suffering several concussions.

“There comes a time when every athlete needs to realize when their health is a priority and a future with their family is what is most important,” Shaw said in a statement. “That point for me is now. After several concussions, doctors have strongly recommended I stop playing the game that I love. For once in my life, I am going to listen.”

Shaw suffered his latest concussion on Feb. 9 in a game against the Dallas Stars. Stars defenseman Joel Hanley’s elbow caught his face during the second period. Shaw was put on injured reserve at the time.

“Andrew suffered another concussion on Feb.9 against the Dallas Stars,” Hawks team physician Dr. Michael Terry said in a statement. “Though he has recovered, given the potential long-term consequences of repetitive concussions, we have advised him to discontinue his career as a professional hockey player.”

“I am extremely proud of what I accomplished in my career, and I want to make it clear; I would not change anything about it,” Shaw said. “I won two Stanley Cups, made lifelong friends — and some enemies, too — and will cherish those memories for the rest of my life.”

“Throughout his 10-year career with the Chicago Blackhawks and Montreal Canadiens, Andrew was always willing to lay his body on the line and put his teammates before himself,” Hawks general manager Stan Bowman said. “He epitomized energy, determination, grit, and toughness and was a player his teammates loved to play with, but his opponents hated to play against. …

“Though it is unfortunate Andrew’s playing career is over, I admire him for making this difficult decision and putting his family and his well-being first.”

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