NEWSLETTER
After 15 seasons with the Chicago Blackhawks, Brent Seabrook is retiring from hockey.
Seabrook retires as an all-time great in the Blackhawks organization, playing the third-most games in franchise history and winning three Stanley Cups.
Your leadership & determination to win meant everything to your teammates, the city of Chicago & hockey fans everywhere. We were proud to watch you hoist 3 Stanley Cups & reach all of your NHL milestones in a #Blackhawks sweater.
On behalf of our organization, thank you Seabs! pic.twitter.com/Bctnvz4dGs
— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) March 5, 2021
The full statement from Seabrook on his retirement:
Brent Seabrook announces he's finished playing: pic.twitter.com/JJ3PwokLsi
— Tracey Myers (@Tramyers_NHL) March 5, 2021
His legacy with the Blackhawks should be most noted for being one of the most clutch playoff perfromers in the “One Goal” dynasty era of Blackhawks hockey.
Brent Seabrook always had a real knack for scoring big goals, in the biggest moments. 🏆🚨
Clutch. #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/ijLSsf5uGl
— NBC Sports Hockey (@NBCSportsHockey) March 5, 2021
A blue-line monster who could produce points, defend and battle, and take your head off if he wanted, Seabrook was an often unsung hero in his time with the Blackhawks. Poor contract or not, Seabrook’s tenure with the Blackhawks was undoubtedly one of the best of any player in the modern era.
Thank You, Brent.#Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/e3ThsjWpPV
— Bleacher Nation Blackhawks (@BN_Blackhawks) March 5, 2021
Seabrook was ready to come back to the Blackhawks this season, following shoulder and double hip surgery a year ago, but was derailed by a back injury before the season. It was announced today that complications with his right hip have also contributed to his decision to hang up his skates for good.
Statement from #Blackhawks Team Physician Michael Terry pic.twitter.com/PF1ydSfOcs
— Eric Lear (@BHTVeric) March 5, 2021
Unfortunately, Seabrook won’t have the opportunity to go out playing the game with the same warrior-like spirit he always had. His last game with the Blackhawks will be a 5-3 win against the Minnesota Wild on December 15, 2019 at the United Center.
He finishes his career with the most playoff goals by a defenseman (20) in Blackhawks history, three Stanley Cups, and a 2010 Olympic Gold Medal with Canada.
Much like Corey Crawford, Brent Seabrook would probably get more Hall of Fame consideration had he not been on such a star-studded team. Maybe he wouldn’t have gotten in, but the chatter would have been more intense.
— Jay Zawaski (@JayZawaski670) March 5, 2021
The back end of his career will be the focus for some when it comes to his legacy with the Blackhawks, signing an eight-year, $55M contract extension at the age of 30 and never living up to the deal. That’s not on him. He wasn’t going to NOT sign that deal, anyone would. His body gave out on him and has now forced his hand in retirement.
(We’ll have more on the impact of his retirement on that deal/the Blackhawks finances later today).
Thank you Seabs pic.twitter.com/EY4lnPPOTI
— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) March 5, 2021
Thank you, Brent.
