New York Rangers release statement on Henrik Lundqvist; will retire his jersey this season

henrik lundqvist jersey retirement
Feb 14, 2020; Columbus, Ohio, USA; New York Rangers goaltender Henrik Lundqvist (30) high fives fans as he skates off the ice after warmups prior to the game against the Columbus Blue Jackets at Nationwide Arena. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

Barely an hour after Henrik Lundqvist announced his retirement from the game of hockey, the New York Rangers have released a statement. The team has announced they will retire Lundqvist’s iconic #30 to the Madison Square Garden rafters at a to be determined game this season.

New York Rangers to retire Lundqvist’s jersey

“It is with mixed emotions that The New York Rangers offer our best wishes and heartfelt gratitude to Henrik Lundqvist on the announcement of his retirement,” the team said in a statement. “Henrik’s commitment to excellence made him one of the best goaltenders to ever play the game of hockey, and we are so fortunate to have witnessed his greatness firsthand for 15 years.

“As we congratulate Henrik on an extraordinary career and a lasting legacy of success, charity and character, we are honored to announce that we will retire his number and raise his jersey to the rafters at an upcoming game this season. Henrik is, and always will be, a Ranger.”

No date for the ceremony has been announced and will be coordinated with Lundqvist himself.

Henrik Lundqvist retires

Legendary New York Rangers goaltender Henrik Lundqvist held a press conference this morning to announce his retirement from the game of hockey.

“I have chosen to end my playing career,” Lundqvist said via translation. “I am extremely grateful for all the memories.”

henrik lundqvist retires
Henrik Lundqvist (Newsday/Jim McIsaac)

In an Instagram post he delved in further. “For the last 30 years, I have devoted my life to the game of hockey…and now it’s time to walk away from the game I love and begin a new chapter,” he said. “The future excites me. I’ve met so many amazing people over the years that will help to guide and inspire me in my new journey.”

It sounds like Lundqvist will take some time off before deciding on his future. He already knows he will have a role with the Rangers one day but the time isn’t now.

The 39 year-old Lundqvist will end his NHL career with a record of 459-310-96, a .916 SV% and a GAA of 2.43 with 64 shutouts. Simply remarkable numbers. He will forever be remembered for carrying the team on numerous occasions, in particular the 2014 Stanley Cup run that fell short.

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Anthony Scultore is the founder of Forever Blueshirts and has been covering the New York Rangers and the NHL... More about Anthony Scultore

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