In somewhat surprising news, Blues forward Andy McDonald is retiring, citing post-concussion concerns as his reason for leaving the game.
“The last few years too much of the focus became worrying about the next hit. I was always thinking about it,” McDonald tells True Hockey.
“I’m fortunate to get out now. I know I could play two or three more years and I love the game of hockey, but health-wise I know I shouldn’t be playing.”
McDonald, 35, had seven goals and 14 assists in 37 games this season. He appeared in all six playoff games for St. Louis, failing to register a point.
According to True Hockey, McDonald suffered five concussions during his NHL career.
McDonald was set to become an unrestricted free agent this summer.
In all, he played 685 regular-season games, scoring 182 goals and adding 307 assists.
He also won a Stanley Cup with the Anaheim Ducks in 2007.
