T.J. Oshie addresses potentially having to retire due to injuries

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Josh Tupper
July 5, 2024 (10:53 PM)

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TJ Oshie addresses potentially having to retire due to back injuries.

T.J. Oshie, a Stanley Cup champion and international hockey legend, is contemplating his future in the NHL. Despite his impressive career, including a Stanley Cup win with the Washington Capitals in 2017-18 and a memorable Olympic moment at the 2014 Winter Olympics, Oshie is uncertain about continuing to play due to persistent back issues.

Oshie has been open about his struggles with back pain, revealing that it has become so severe that he has had to lie on the floor and use water bottles to urinate because he is unable to move. Despite efforts from doctors, the exact cause of the pain remains unknown, and Oshie is still searching for a solution.

As he weighs his options for the 2024-25 season, Oshie is clear that he wants to continue playing, but his body may not cooperate. His determination and passion for the game are evident, but the severity of his back issues may ultimately dictate his decision.

"It goes without saying that the Capitals don't win in 2018 without TJ Oshie, and even though he had an informal goodbye after Game 4, the chances he comes back are dwindling fast. If this is it, he had a hell of a ride."

Still, Oshie, who is also recovering from a broken hand that he called "no big concern", told ESPN he will start training soon, and he very much wants to play in 2024-25, but won't if it means risking losing his mobility.

"Exploring every option we can. I obviously love the game and can play through a lot of different types of pain, but back pain and not being able to stand is a little bit different. We're working on it. We'll keep grinding and hopefully we'll find a solution."

It's a difficult decision to walk away from the sport you love so much, but it's another thing all together to risk the quality of a potentially long portion of your life. Washington has said Oshie will be supported in whatever decision he makes. Right now, he told ESPN he'll it's all about what happens at training, adding he's feels much better right now.

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