For the most part, hockey is a sport where players traditionally tend to avoid expressing personal feelings or emotions off the ice. Yes, elation is apparent during joyous in-game moments, and the same can be said during frustrating times. However, during interviews or press conferences, their words typically steer towards the generic and monotonous side. Though it is changing a bit, verbal human emotion remains a rarity in the sport.

That being said, moments exist where expressing raw emotion to the public is unavoidable. Take, for instance, a retirement announcement. Whether through the spoken or written word, players cannot help but allow a peek into their personal side when reflecting on the game they love and the decision they are making to put it behind them.

Today, we received another one of those heartfelt announcements. This time St. Louis Blues defenseman Carl Gunnarsson.

In a heartfelt essay posted to the Blues team website, Gunnarsson announced his decision to call it a career after 12 seasons in the NHL. He spent the last seven in St. Louis, playing five years with the Toronto Maple Leafs before that.

-12 NHL seasons.
-629 regular-season games.
-One of the biggest goals in Blues history.
-THE BEST bathroom story of all-time.

Congratulations @carl_gun on an outstanding career. https://t.co/ovoqn4u2GR #stlblues pic.twitter.com/jth7xAbV8c

— St. Louis Blues (@StLouisBlues) June 23, 2021

Although his final year in the league was cut short, only playing in 12 games, Gunnarsson 629 regular season, and 68 postseason contests through 12 years. Not necessarily known for his point production, he still managed to post 30 goals and 108 assists. Additionally, he registered seven career playoff points.

Of course, for Blues fans, no point is more memorable than Gunnarsson's game-winning goal in overtime of Game 2 against the Boston Bruins in the 2019 Stanley Cup Final. He had a career-high three playoff points during that run and scored his only postseason goal when it mattered most.

Carl Gunnarsson's retirement does not necessarily come as a shock. With his age and injury struggles, everyone knew it was a strong possibility he would call it a career. Still, whenever a beloved member of the organization decides to hang up his skates, one cannot help but feel a slight sense of emotion.

Here's to a solid 12-year playing career and a call for best wishes on whatever comes next.

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