New Jersey defenceman Scott Stevens retires
Last Updated: Tuesday, September 6, 2005 | 3:52 PM ET
CBC Sports
After playing more NHL games in his 22 seasons than any other defenceman, Scott Stevens of the New Jersey Devils is hanging up his skates. The 41-year-old Stevens -- a 13-time all-star -- announced his retirement Tuesday. He said he wanted to spend more time with his family.
Stevens has had a history of concussion problems in recent years, but said his health is fine now.
Devils GM Lou Lamoriello said: "He's been an integral part of all the success we've had. He's been a leader on and off the ice as a hockey player and a person." Lamoriello added that Stevens will stay with the organization in some capacity.
New Jersey Devils defender Scott Stevens watches during a game against the Buffalo Sabres in November 2003
Stevens, an unrestricted free agent, missed the final 44 games of the most recent NHL season, 2003-04, after sustaining a head injury against Pittsburgh on Jan. 7, 2004.
The Devils have won three Stanley Cups with Stevens as their defensive anchor. His retirement, and the departure of Scott Niedermayer to Anaheim as a free agent, creates a large void in the team's defence.
"Obviously, it's a shock right now to hear," teammate Scott Gomez said. "You knew that day would come. We all thought Scotty would be back."
Devils netminder Martin Brodeur said the team is prepared for Stevens' absence, having learned how to play without him for much of the last NHL season. "We got used to not having him around," said Brodeur. "We really have a sense of what it's going to be like without Scott Stevens. At the same time we're going to have to learn about life without Scott Niedermayer, too. It's two tough blows to take..."
