Former Jets defenceman Nathan Beaulieu announced his retirement after only being 32 years old.
Former Winnipeg Jets defenceman Nathan Beaulieu has officially announced his retirement from professional hockey, bringing an end to an 11-year NHL career that saw him play for four teams and make a lasting impression as a reliable, stay-at-home defenseman.
Winnipeg Jets (@NHLJets) on XCongratulations on a great career, and all the best in your retirement Beau!
The 32-year-old from Strathroy, Ontario, was drafted 17th overall by the Montreal Canadiens in 2011 and made his NHL debut during the 2012–13 season. Over the course of his career, Beaulieu skated in 471 regular season games and recorded 12 goals and 86 assists for a total of 98 points. He also added five assists in 21 playoff appearances.
Beaulieu spent time with the Montreal Canadiens, Buffalo Sabres, Winnipeg Jets and Anaheim Ducks. His most productive season came in 2016–17 with Montreal when he registered 28 points in 74 games.
But for Jets fans, Beaulieu’s name will always be tied to his gritty, physical play and steady defensive presence during his four seasons in Winnipeg. Acquired in a trade from Buffalo in 2019, Beaulieu played 124 games with the Jets and was often leaned on for his defensive play and penalty killing. He scored five points in 18 games during his first run with Winnipeg and remained a dependable depth option through the 2021–22 season.
After leaving the NHL, Beaulieu extended his professional career with stints in Switzerland and the KHL before deciding to hang up his skates. While he never became the offensive threat once projected of a first-round pick, Beaulieu carved out a long and respectable NHL career defined by toughness, work ethic and quiet consistency. His retirement marks the close of a steady, team-first chapter in modern NHL blue line history.
Read the full article here
