2023-09-10 20:17:59
Andrew Ladd hangs up his skates.
The two-time Stanley Cup champion and former Winnipeg Jets captain announced his retirement from the NHL on social media on Sunday.
Ladd last played with the Coyotes in 2021-22 and spent last season on the injured list following failing a physical following knee surgery.
The 37-year-old made the announcement via a statement on Twitter.
The time has come to turn the page.
When I was a kid, I didn’t think I would have a chance of making a living playing hockey. There was my love for gaming. I loved being part of a team, I loved the competition, I loved the next chance to win, I loved the challenge, I loved the escape by immersing myself in the present moment, I loved the feeling of belonging. I loved the confidence it gave me, I loved proving people wrong.
When I reflect on the journey, the 1001 games, the two Stanley Cups, the opportunity to be captain of a Canadian city, what I am most grateful for are the people. My parents for their sacrifice, the core values they instilled in me, and the love they showed me through compassion and challenge. My brothers for their unwavering loyalty and love, no matter the circumstances. My grandfather, who believed in my potential when no one else did. My extended family watching me at home or coming to support me in Vancouver and Calgary. My teammates who pushed me to grow on and off the ice, some of whom have become lifelong friends. The equipment staff who made sure I always had what I needed, whether it was equipment or a conversation. The medical staff who kept me on the ice or made sure I got home following surgery. The team service coordinators who organized all ticket, restaurant and hotel requests. The coaches who taught me how to grow as a player and leader. The general managers who believed I might be a piece of the puzzle. Don Rourke, who helped me heal countless wounds. Adam Francilia, who has been my coach and friend since I was 13. Dan Leffelaar, who helped me rediscover my love of the game and reach 1000 games. The Carolina Hurricanes, Chicago Blackhawks, Atlanta Thrashers, Winnipeg Jets, New York Islanders and Arizona Coyotes for allowing me to represent their organization and their cities. Friends from all these places who allowed my family and me to live in community. The fans who are the fuel of our game and who have created so many amazing moments like the first game back at the Peg, the anthem at the madhouse, and standing for the entire seventh game in Carolina. It was your energy and passion that created these moments. My children LockIan, Andi and Walker who were always there to make me smile during warm-ups or following a difficult match. Finally, my wife Brandy, who has made me a better person since the day we met, who has been with me through the victories, the defeats, the hurts, the tears, the exchanges, the moves and the most difficult times. most difficult of my career. I will always be grateful for how gaming has shaped me and the people it has brought into my life!
– Andrew Ladd
— Andrew Ladd (@aladd16) September 10, 2023
Ladd spent 16 seasons in the NHL, from 2005 to 2022, with the Hurricanes, Blackhawks, Thrashers, Jets, Islanders and Coyotes. He won two Stanley Cups during his career, one with the Hurricanes in 2006 and the other with the Blackhawks in 2010. From 2010 to 2016, he captained the Thrashers and the Jets following they moved, becoming the first captain of the current Jets era.
During his career, Ladd played 1,001 games, scoring 256 goals, 294 assists and 550 points. His best season was 2014–15, in which he had 62 points in 81 games, although he also scored a career-high 29 goals in 2010–11. In 65 playoff games, he recorded 9 goals, 9 assists and 18 points.
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