Chris Wideman Retires from Professional Hockey

Montreal — Former Montreal Canadiens and Ottawa Senators defenseman Chris Wideman announced his retirement from professional hockey on Tuesday, concluding a six-season career in the NHL. Wideman, who spent his last three seasons with the Canadiens, did not participate in the 2023-24 season due to a back injury.

The 34-year-old made his decision public through a letter released by the Canadiens, where he expressed his efforts in rehabilitation and various treatments before deciding to retire. Wideman ends his career with 20 goals and 58 assists over 291 games. A five-foot-10, 180-pound blueliner, he began his NHL journey with the Senators in the 2015-16 season and played parts of four seasons before being traded to the Edmonton Oilers during the 2018-19 season.

Following his tenure in Edmonton, Wideman had brief stints with the Florida Panthers, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Anaheim Ducks organizations. During the 2020-21 season, Wideman played in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) in Russia, where he was honored as the league’s defenseman of the year. He returned to the NHL the following season and achieved a career-best 27 points, comprising four goals and 23 assists, in 64 games with the Canadiens.

Wideman’s letter also conveyed his gratitude to the various individuals and organizations who supported his career. He reflected on his journey beginning at Miami University in 2012, acknowledging the dedication and support from his family, particularly his parents and wife, Caroline. He expressed deep appreciation for his time on the ice, especially the memories shared with his son, Henry.

Wideman also thanked the Montreal Canadiens organization, including Geoff and Kate Molson, Scott Mellanby, Allain Roy, Jeff Gorton, Kent Hughes, and Martin St-Louis, for their roles in his career, especially after his return from Russia. He paid tribute to his teammates, whom he described as lifelong friends. Wideman concluded by expressing his determination to find a way to remain connected to the sport even in retirement.