Bryan Bickell‘s final NHL game on Sunday was an emotional one.
The Carolina Hurricanes forward announced on Saturday that he would retire after the season as he fights multiple sclerosis.
“My biggest thing was my health,” Bickell said of his retirement. “I don’t want to take risks, and obviously I played hockey for my life, and it’s obviously tough to leave, but I’ve got a life after hockey and to be healthy, and watch my kids grow up will be important.”
Bickell logged 13:32 in his final game — a 4-3 shootout win over the Philadelphia Flyers — and recorded two shots on goal.
It was an emotional moment for the 31-year-old, who won three Stanley Cups with the Chicago Blackhawks. Bickell’s voice shook and tears filled his eyes during a second intermission interview when asked about his final game.
“Hopefully I can bang one in and finish on a good note,” Bickell said in the interview.
And that he did.
Head coach Bill Peters sent Bickell out as Carolina’s first shooter in the shootout and he converted on Anthony Stolarz.
Bickell, who was diagnosed with MS in November, finishes his career playing 395 games while scoring 66 goals and 70 assists.
