A NHL perspective was forced to hang up her skates before playing for the team that drafted him.
Chaz Lucius, a first round choice four years ago, announced his retirement on Tuesday due to a diagnosis of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.
Lucius was drafted by the Winnipeg jets with the 18th overall selection and had played for their affiliate AHL.
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Chaz Lucius de Winnipeg exerts pressure on the foreground during the third period against Ottawa on September 29, 2023. (Richard A. Whittaker / Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
“I thought I was unlucky. With this diagnosis of EDS, I realize now that my body could not manage the physical nature of playing hockey,” Lucius said in a statement. “Given this condition, my history of injuries and the physical nature of hockey, I was medically advised not to continue playing.”
Lucius said he had been faced with joint injuries over the years and had difficulty recovering from them.
“I feel blessed to have experienced everything that hockey has given me over the years even if I am crushed not to continue to continue my dream of playing in the NHL,” he said.
Chaz Lucius from Minnesota was shown in the match against Michigan State on February 5, 2022. (Bailey Hilshesheim / Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
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“After many discussions and consultations with Chaz, its representatives and its health professionals, the Winnipeg Jets Hockey Club fully supports its difficult decision to retire,” the jets said in a statement. “The state and the difficulties of Chaz with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) have put it at risk of injury if it continues to play at professional level, so we understand its choice. We wish Chaz all the best in his efforts to be a defender of those who deal with publishers and hope for a brilliant future in front of him.”
Lucius was a member of the United States National Development Program before playing at the University of Minnesota for the 2021-222 season. He participated in the Juniors World 2023 where he and the United States won a bronze medal.
Chaz Lucius from Team USA is shown against the Swiss team during the IIHF World Championship match on December 29, 2022 in Moncton, Canada. (Dale Preston / Getty images)
During his stay in the AHL, Lucius, a center, played in just 54 games, recording seven goals and 20 assists.
