Arizona Coyotes Defenseman Retires

 

Arizona Coyotes defenseman Niklas Hjalmarsson is retiring, according to Craig Morgan. The 34-year-old was set to become an unrestricted free agent, but that is now not going to occur. 

Per source, Coyotes UFA D Niklas Hjalmarsson is retiring. I don't expect a formal announcement or statement from Nik. Those who have covered him or known him know that is not his style.
He was an integral part of 3 Stanley Cups in Chicago and the consummate pro on/off the ice. pic.twitter.com/b3GUVwGWa9

— Craig Morgan (@CraigSMorgan) July 25, 2021

This was Hjalmarsson's fourth season with the Coyotes. Although his offensive contributions fell off during his final years in the league, he was still a very efficient player because of his strong work ethic and defensive ability. In 41 games this season, he recorded 5 assists. 

Hjalmarsson will certainly be remembered most for his time with the Chicago Blackhawks, though. During his prime years there, he was a very steady top-four defenseman who was capable of producing decent offense. He would go on to win three Stanley Cups with the team and was a big factor that led to them. 

In 821 games between the Blackhawks and Coyotes, Hjalmarsson had 25 goals and 172 total points. Yet, he should forever be praised for his overall dependability on the backend. 

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