"Retire his jersey for fighting Mark Scheifele": Montreal Canadiens fans react as defenseman Chris Wideman hangs up skates after six seasons

Defenseman Chris Wideman announced his retirement on Tuesday after six seasons in the NHL. Wideman played for the Montreal Canadiens, Ottawa Senators, Edmonton Oilers and Florida Panthers during his career.

The Montreal Canadiens shared the news on X, posting:

"Chris Wideman announces his retirement following six seasons in the NHL."

Wideman, known for his toughness and team spirit, played 110 games with the Canadiens over the last two seasons.

After the news, NHL fans reacted on X.

"Retire his jersey for fighting Mark Scheifele please," one fan joked, referring to a memorable moment during Wideman's career.

"Thanks for being part of the team and maybe you can get a position with the organization helping develop young players. Good luck to you!" A fan wrote.

"Wishing you all the best, Wides! And hoping we still get to see you around the game in some way," said a fan.

Wideman played 291 NHL games, recording 20 goals and 58 assists. Many fans appreciated his hard work and leadership on the ice. Here are some more reactions from fans on X:

"Happy retirement and thank you for everything!☺️" a fan said.

"An unlikely NHLer who stuck around during some rough years and guided the young D man. Thank you Chris ✌️🔥" one fan wrote.

"Thank you Wides and best of luck with your future projects! Enjoy your retirement 🫶🫶" another fan said.

Now, as Wideman steps away from hockey, fans wish him well for his future endeavors.

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Chris Wideman retired mainly because of a back injury

Chris Wideman had to call it a day due to a back injury, as per reports from the NHL. The 34-year-old defenseman last played in the 2022-23 season for the Montreal Canadiens, recording six assists in 46 games. He missed the entire 2023-24 season because of his back injury.

Wideman released a statement explaining his ordeal (per NHL.com):

"After much thought, I have decided it is best for my health and my family, to retire from playing hockey professionally. I made numerous attempts at rehabilitation, therapy and many different treatments, but eventually, it became apparent that returning to the game I love would not be possible."

Drafted by the Ottawa Senators in 2009, Wideman's best season was in 2021-22 with the Canadiens, where he had 27 points (four goals, 23 assists) in 64 games.

Wideman thanked the NHL for fulfilling his childhood dream and plans to stay involved with hockey in the future.