Veteran defenseman Chris Wideman announced his retirement from the NHL on Tuesday after six seasons. The 34-year-old defenseman, who played his last three seasons with the Montreal Canadiens, made the decision after battling a back injury that sidelined him for the entirety of the 2023-24 campaign.
Wideman, a five-foot-10, 180-pound blueliner, started his NHL career with the Ottawa Senators in 2015-16. He played parts of four seasons in the nation's capital before being traded to the Edmonton Oilers in 2018-19, where he played five games before moving on to the Florida Panthers, Pittsburgh Penguins and Anaheim Ducks organizations.
During the 2020-21 season, he played in Russia's Kontinental Hockey League and was named the league's defenceman of the year. Wideman returned to the NHL the following season and produced a career-best 27 points (four goals, 23 assists) in 64 games with the Canadiens.
In a letter released by the Canadiens, Wideman said he made several attempts at rehabilitation and sought a variety of treatments before deciding to hang up his skates. He finishes his career with 20 goals and 58 assists in 291 games.
Chris Wideman's Retirement Letter: A Heartfelt Farewell
In his letter to fans, Wideman expressed his immense gratitude for the opportunity to live out his childhood dream of playing in the NHL. He acknowledged the challenges he faced throughout his career but also highlighted the unwavering support of his family and friends who encouraged him to persevere.
Wideman specifically thanked his parents for their dedication and support, instilling in him a strong work ethic and guiding him through tough times. He also expressed heartfelt gratitude to his wife, Caroline, for her sacrifices and unwavering support, which he said gave him the strength to overcome adversity.
Wideman's letter also paid tribute to his children, Henry and Ferris, saying becoming a father gave him a new purpose in life. He cherished the memories of playing hockey at the Bell Centre in front of his son, Henry.
Wideman expressed gratitude to the entire hockey world, from minor hockey coaches to volunteers and parents, for their contributions to making his professional career possible. He also thanked the trainers, equipment staff, and support staff for their hard work behind the scenes, making even the longest seasons feel less burdensome.
A Farewell to Montreal, a Look Ahead
Wideman expressed his appreciation for playing for the Montreal Canadiens, an organization he called extraordinary. He also singled out Geoff and Kate Molson for giving him a second chance to play in the NHL, creating a family atmosphere in Montreal. He thanked Jeff Gorton, Kent Hughes, and Martin St-Louis for allowing him to continue his career in Montreal until the very end, acknowledging their positive impact on his life.
Wideman concluded his letter with a heartfelt message to his teammates, acknowledging the joy he found in being part of a team. He stated that being a teammate was never something he took for granted, and that it was the part of the game he would miss the most. He emphasized that they would be teammates for life.
Wideman expressed uncertainty about his future involvement in hockey but said he would find a way to stay connected to the game he loves, just as he has done throughout his career.
The hockey world bid farewell to a dedicated player who left a lasting impact on the game. Chris Wideman's career was a testament to hard work, resilience, and a deep passion for the sport. Though his playing days may be over, his legacy as a devoted teammate and a true hockey enthusiast will continue to inspire fans and players alike.
