Former Blackhawks G Corey Crawford announces retirement originally appeared on NBC Sports Chicago
Former Blackhawks goaltender and two-time Stanley Cup champion Corey Crawford announced Saturday that he is retiring after the NHL.
Crawford, who signed a two-year, $7.8 million contract with the New Jersey Devils in the offseason, released this statement:
"I have been fortunate to have had a long career playing professional hockey for a living," Crawford said. "I wanted to continue my career, but believe I’ve given all I can to the game of hockey, and I have decided that it is time to retire. I would like to thank the New Jersey Devils organization for understanding and supporting my decision.
"I would like to thank the Chicago Blackhawks organization for giving me the chance to live my childhood dream. I am proud to have been part of winning two Stanley Cups in Chicago. Thank you to all of my teammates and coaches throughout the years. Also, thank you to the fans who make this great game what it is. I am happy and excited to move on to the next chapter of my life with my family."
Crawford spent all 13 seasons in Chicago, where he went 260-162-53 with a 2.45 goals-against average, .918 save percentage and 26 shutouts in 488 regular-season games. He also went 52-42 with a 2.38 goals-against average, .918 save percentage and five shutouts in 96 postseason contests.
Crawford, who was drafted by the Blackhawks in the second round (No. 52 overall) in the 2003 NHL Draft, is the only goaltender in franchise history to win multiple Stanley Cups. Only Tony Esposito (418) and Glenn Hall (276) have more wins than Crawford (260).
