Leaf likely to be forced into early retirement following latest announcement
Injured in a collision with Clayton Keller in a game against Arizona back in October, Jake Muzzin has been out with a cervical spine injury all season. It was initially thought to be a concussion, but after further testing it was revealed to be a neck issue and was worse than originally expected, which led to him being placed on LTIR. Today, the Leafs announced that he is officially out for the remainder of the season and playoffs.
It is unfortunate news for the Leafs and Muzzin as he is exactly the type of player they need for the playoffs and was fantastic against Tampa last year. The Leafs announced that they would provide a further update on his status for next season around the time training camp begins for the 2023-2024 season.
Muzzin has this and next season remaining on his contract that pays him $5.625M per season and if his career is indeed over, he will likely spend next season on LTIR before officially retiring to give the Leafs some cap flexibility. Muzzin has still been able to be a leader with the team off the ice, often hanging out at the rink and reportedly working out while the team is practicing, however, his leadership, physicality and toughness on the ice is missed.
One has to wonder whether or not we'll ever see Muzzin in the NHL again or if his career has been cut short due to the devastating injury. This is a sad day for the Leafs, Jake Muzzin and Leafs Nation. While there's still a chance that he may be able to work his way back to full health in time for next season, it does seem like only a slim chance, given the nature of his injury.
Life after hockey has to take priority here. Muzzin has a young family and with his injury being a serious one, his health has to come before hockey - for his sake and for theirs. All the best to Jake and his family during this difficult time.
| POLL | ||
22 FEVRIER | 331 ANSWERS Leaf likely to be forced into early retirement following latest announcement Will Jake Muzzin ever play another NHL game? | ||
| Yes | 23 | 6.9 % |
| No | 308 | 93.1 % |
| List of polls | ||
