Why Did Kevin Bieksa Retire?
Kevin Bieksa retired because he wanted closure for his family and himself. He departed from the NHL as a Canuck on 3 November 2022.
As per Bieska's interview with The Athletic, he was going to depart from the league on 28 March 2020. He had set everything up and booked his flight as well.
Kevin did not want to retire officially and secure the limelight for himself. However, his father insisted that he depart from the league by signing a one-day contract with the Canucks.
Bieksa's dad told him that it was good for the organization as well as his legacy. Agreeing with his father, the athlete talked to the Canucks executive team.
When everything was in place, COVID-19 hit and the lockdown began on 15 March. Meanwhile, the former General Manager Jim Benning was fired and Kevin was unsure whether he will retire as a Canuck or a Duck.
Canucks Celebrated Kevin's Departure
Kevin was able to convince the new executive of his one-day contract. He signed the deal on 3 November 2022 and retired from the NHL as a Canuck.
Bieksa was with the franchise for 11 years and represented them in 10 seasons. The only other club that he represented in his playing career was Anaheim Ducks.
Since Kevin began his professional career with the Canucks, he wanted to end it being a part of the club. The organization threw him a fete for his continuous contribution.
According to the NHL, the special night organized for Bieksa included a pregame tribute, limited merch collections, and so on.