Ilya Bryzgalov considers retirement in humangous beeg decision
Have we seen the last of Ilya Bryzgalov?
He played eight games for the Anaheim Ducks last season, signing on in December and then hitting the ice for the last time on Feb. 10 in loss at the Florida Panthers. He gave up three goals on eight shots, which isn't good. But it’s just hockey, you know? It’s just a game. Why you heff to be mad?
He decided to “sit out” the rest of the season after that, saying:
"At the beginning of the NHL season, I spent all of my time with my wife and my children," said Bryzgalov. "I drove my son and daughter to their practices and games and enjoyed life. I had no plans to return to the NHL this season until the Ducks reached out to my agent, Ritch Winter. I agreed to return because of my respect for the Ducks organization, the quality of the team they had assembled and my long relationship with Bob Murray and the team. Given the way things have worked out, I have decided to return home to be with my wife and children, who did not move with me to Anaheim. It’s not the way I had hoped things would work out. But when you can return to a family you love, could life be any better?"
Now, he’s saying that his family time could increase as his hockey career ends.
Bryz is now working at a summer hockey camp for youth goalies through HC Lada of the KHL, and told that team’s website that retirement could be his next step if he doesn’t find employment in the next month and a half.
Bryzgalov said he would be OK spending time with his children in their home in Philadelphia, although he’s keeping the door open for a potential contract offer from a KHL team. “Things can change at any time,” he said.
Obviously, as a content provider, we really, really, really hope Bryzgalov finds another gig. Whether it’s taking selfies with fans or helping Jets fans mock him or his unexpected moments of glory or, well, whatever the hell this was …
… the hockey universe needs Ilya Bryzgalov.
It is humangous beeg, but will feel a little smaller without him.
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