A former first round NHL draft pick is hanging up his skates at 21.
Chaz Lucius, who was selected 18th overall by the Winnipeg Jets in 2021, announced his retirement on Tuesday due to a hereditary tissue disorder.
Lucius is a center who played for the Manitoba Moose, the AHL affiliate of the Jets, this season. He said in a statement that he was diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, which impacts the connective tissue that stabilizes and supports the joints and organs in the body.
Lucius said in the statement that he has dealt with joint injuries for years and spent long periods of time recovering.
“I thought I was just unlucky. With this diagnosis of EDS, I now realize that my body could not handle the physical nature of playing hockey,” he said. “Given this condition, my injury history, and the physical nature of hockey, I have been medically advised not to continue to play.”
Lucius, from Lawrence, Kansas, was a product of the U.S. National Team Development Program, which is in Michigan. He later attended Minnesota.
The Jets, who have an NHL-best 110 points this season, also released a statement.
“After much discussion and consultation with Chaz, his representatives, and medical professionals, the Winnipeg Jets Hockey Club fully supports his difficult decision to retire. Chaz’s condition and struggles with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) put him at risk of injury if he continues to play at the professional level, so we understand his choice. We wish Chaz all the best in his efforts to be an advocate for those dealing with EDS and hope for a bright future in front of him.”
Lucius closed his statement by saying he plans on being an advocate for those with EDS.