6-Year Veteran Defenseman Announces Retirement Due To Nagging Injury

Defenseman Markus Nutivaara has announced his retirement at the age of 29 due to a career-ending hip injury.

The decision comes after a series of injuries that hindered his ability to continue playing. Nutivaara began his hockey journey in his hometown of Oulu, Finland, where he honed his skills and eventually found success in Finland's top league, Liiga.

His talents caught the attention of the Columbus Blue Jackets, who drafted him despite being a seventh-round pick.

Nutivaara quickly proved himself as a reliable depth defenseman in the NHL, contributing 17 goals and 71 points over the course of his career.

San Jose Sharks defenseman Markus Nutivaara, 29, call it a career because of hip injury.

Nutivaara signed a one year deal with the Sharks last summer but played only one pre season game.

Nutivaara played 275 games for CBJ & FLA.

— Tommi Seppälä (@TommiSeppala) June 30, 2023

One of his notable achievements was his involvement in the Blue Jackets' historic series sweep over the Tampa Bay Lightning in the 2018-19 season

He then joined the Florida Panthers for two seasons, where he only managed to get into 31 games, recording no goals and 11 total points.

Injuries really took a toll on Nutivaara's career, and during the 2021-22 season, a hip injury sidelined him before the regular season even began.

Despite signing a one-year contract with the San Jose Sharks, he was unable to make a comeback and ultimately decided to retire.

Though his playing career was cut short, Nutivaara can look back with pride at his accomplishments both internationally and domestically. He was a dependable defenseman who made solid contributions to the teams he played for. Photo Credit: Robert Edwards-USA TODAY Sports