Logan Couture to Announce Retirement from NHL Due to Injury

SAN JOSE, Calif. — San Jose Sharks captain Logan Couture is set to hold a press conference on Tuesday to announce his retirement from professional hockey due to a chronic injury, a source confirmed Monday afternoon. The 36-year-old forward has been sidelined since January 31, 2024, due to a condition known as osteitis pubis, which has severely impacted his ability to play.

Couture’s injury has kept him from participating in any NHL games this season, marking a significant decline in a career that began when he was drafted ninth overall by the Sharks in 2007. After hoping to return to the ice last summer, Couture has faced ongoing challenges that have prevented him from resume training.

“It’s been a long journey, and while I wish I could have continued, my health has to come first,” Couture stated in an upcoming press release. “I want to thank the Sharks organization and the fans for their support over the years.”

Throughout his 15-season tenure with the Sharks, Couture has played 933 games, amassing a total of 701 points with 323 goals and 378 assists. He ranks fourth on the franchise’s all-time scoring list, following beloved players Joe Pavelski, Joe Thornton, and Patrick Marleau.

Sharks general manager Mike Grier will join Couture at SAP Center on Tuesday at 1:30 p.m. for the announcement. This press conference marks a pivotal moment for the Sharks as they enter a new phase of rebuilding after a disappointing season.

Couture’s career highlights include leading the Sharks to the 2016 Stanley Cup Finals, where they ultimately fell to the Pittsburgh Penguins. He has collected 101 points in playoff appearances, a testament to his clutch performance under pressure. In his best NHL season, 2018-19, Couture scored 70 points, with 27 goals and 43 assists.

As the Sharks prepare for a future without Couture, there is speculation about who will take on the captain’s role; top prospect Macklin Celebrini is seen as a potential candidate as he quickly rises through the ranks of the organization.

The press conference will also address Couture’s contract situation. He is currently in the sixth year of an eight-year, $64 million deal, set to earn $7 million next season, which remains in limbo pending his official announcement.

In a statement prior to the press conference, Grier expressed, “Logan has been the heart and soul of our franchise. His leadership and talent will be sorely missed as we look to build for the future.”

Couture’s departure signifies more than the end of a personal journey; it underscores a transformative chapter for the Sharks as they aim to foster new leadership and adapt to an evolving NHL landscape.