Former Chicago Blackhawks Defensemen Reveals The Real Reason as to Why He Left The NHL
NHL defender Slater Koekkoek, who most recently played for the Edmonton Oilers and Chicago Blackhawks, has spoken out about his decision to retire from the game.
The former resident of Winchester, Ontario, claimed that his significant anxiety contributed to his weight problems and his inability to eat.
He continued by stating that this problem has existed for a long time prior to the start of his NHL career. He would frequently hear from several coaches and general managers that he needed to gain weight in order to be able to fight in the corners and get the puck out. It takes a lot of guts for someone to share their concern with the public while also realizing that they needed to take action to protect their physical and mental wellbeing.
When he last signed with the NHL, Koekkoek was 6'2" and weighed 193 pounds. He played 186 games, notched eight goals and 26 assists for 34 points, and accrued 104 penalty minutes. He was chosen by the Tampa Bay Lightning in the first round, number 10, at the 2012 NHL Draft.
Previously on HawksInsider
POLL |
JUIN 11 | 139 ANSWERS Former Chicago Blackhawks Defensemen Reveals The Real Reason as to Why He Left The NHL Do you think the NHL needs to offer more mental assistance? |
Yes | 117 | 84.2 % |
No | 22 | 15.8 % |
List of polls |
|
1 hour ago | By Sam Walker Insider reveals the Chicago Blackhawks' bold projected selection at 2025 NHL draft |
|
5 hours ago | By Sam Walker NHL faces rigging allegations following controversial officiating in Game 2 of Canadiens-Capitals |
|
6 hours ago | By Sam Walker Devastating drunk driving accident takes the life of 15-year old hockey player on Easter Weekend |
|
16 hours ago | By Joshua Deeds Chicago Blackhawks receive major update on prospect Nick Lardis following knee on knee collision |
|
16 hours ago | By Joshua Deeds Chicago Bears Legend Tragically Passes Away At Age 67 After Battle With ALS |
|
18 hours ago | By Joshua Deeds NHL Insider Shares Positive Glimmer of Hope For Chicago Blackhawks' Fan Base |
|
21 hours ago | By Sam Walker Shattering announcement from the PWHL reveals next expansion team |
|
22 hours ago | By Jim Precourt Chicago Blackhawks owner Danny Wirtz issues worrisome statement |