Winnipeg Jets defenceman Grant Clitsome announces retirement

Grant Clitsome always had a smile on his face when chatting with the local media.  Purely my own speculation but I suspect we see him in politics in a few years.

This past season was the final year of a three year 6.2 million dollar deal he signed back in 2013 with the Jets.  He was put on the shelf by Winnipeg back on January 5th, 2015 with what was then referenced as a upper body injury and on January 8th, 2015 he had back surgery.  So his final NHL game was a January 3rd, 2015 game against the Toronto Maple Leafs and his final NHL goal was scored back on November 10th, 2013 against the San Jose Sharks.

Jets Release:

The Winnipeg Jets today announced that defenceman Grant Clitsome has decided to officially retire from pro hockey.

“It is with great regret, that today I announce my retirement from hockey due to a back injury,” said Clitsome. “It’s tough when something unexpected, and out of your control, suddenly ends your career. Despite the circumstances, I am very grateful to have had the opportunity to fulfill my childhood dream and play in the NHL. I am also very grateful for all the great people that I have met, and all the friendships that I have made playing hockey. I would like to thank my family and friends for all of their love and support over the years. I would like to thank the Columbus Blue Jackets organization for drafting me and giving me an opportunity to start my professional career. I would also like to thank the Winnipeg Jets organization for me treating me so well from day one. It truly was a special place to play and I’m proud to retire as a Jet.”

Clitsome, 31, played seven seasons in the NHL, including four with the Winnipeg Jets. Clitsome, who was drafted by the Columbus Blue Jackets 271st overall in the 2004 NHL Draft, tallied 71 points (15G, 56A) and 98 penalty minutes in 205 NHL games.