Carl Hagelin announces retirement from NHL after 11 seasons, citing eye injury

At the age of 35, Carl Hagelin has made the decision to retire from the NHL, claiming an eye problem that has prevented him from participating in games for about a year and a half.

Since getting a stick in the left eye during a Washington Capitals practise on March 1, 2022, Hagelin has been out. After surgery, the team quickly classified the injury as significant and expressed concern for Hagelin’s quality of life away from hockey.

The graceful Swedish winger underwent hip resurfacing surgery in February of last year. That came after arthroscopic surgery, which was performed in October in an effort to treat a persistent left hip issue.

Carl Hagelin is a Swedish professional ice hockey player known for his speed, defensive prowess, and penalty-killing skills. He was born on August 23, 1988, in Sodertalje, Sweden. Hagelin made his mark in the world of hockey through his impressive career in the National Hockey League (NHL).

Hagelin’s hockey journey began in his homeland, where he played for the Sodertalje SK junior teams. He then moved to the United States to play college hockey at the University of Michigan. During his college years, he showcased his exceptional speed and two-way play, helping his team reach the NCAA Frozen Four tournament.

In 2011, Hagelin turned professional and signed with the New York Rangers, who had drafted him in the sixth round of the 2007 NHL Draft. His speed and defensive acumen quickly made him a valuable asset to the team. He gained a reputation as a relentless forechecker and a key penalty killer. His contributions were integral in the Rangers’ run to the Stanley Cup Final in 2014.

Throughout his NHL career, Hagelin also played for several other teams including the Anaheim Ducks, Pittsburgh Penguins, Los Angeles Kings, and Washington Capitals. He became a Stanley Cup champion with the Penguins in 2016 and 2017, showcasing his versatility and adaptability by excelling in different team systems.

Hagelin’s career is defined by his consistent ability to disrupt opponents’ plays, create scoring opportunities, and provide veteran leadership. His speed often puts pressure on opposing defenses and has earned him the nickname “The Swede with Speed.”