Its a sad say for Detroit Red Wings center Henrik Zetterberg and for Red Wing fans as he is forced to retire.

According to WOOD TV, Henrik Zetterberg has been a staple as the center for the Red Wings who has dealt with back problems for years, has been forced to hang up his skates as the announcement was made Friday by the general manager Ken Holland.

The 37 year old captain was showing improvement following his most recent back surgery but unfortunately he will be unable to play hockey for the wings. Zetterberg has suffered from back pain for several years now but the latest surgery didn't fix the problem.

Zetterberg has three more years left on his contract but Red Wings management will use an injured reserve clause to settle out the contract. Management will find away to reduce the 18 million left on his contract.

Zetterberg was on the ice in the NHL for 1,082 games and scored 960 goals. He joined the NHL in 1999 as the 210th draft for the season.

Preseason for the Red Wings kicks off Wednesday as they take on the Pittsburgh Penguins in the Motor City.

 

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