Henrik Lundqvist will not be in net for the Washington Capitals when the 2021 NHL season kicks off. The Vezina Trophy winning goalie announced via social media Thursday afternoon that he was withdrawing from the season due to a heart condition.
In the statement, Lundqvist said that at after conversations with his doctors, the risks of him playing this season were simply too high.
It breaks my heart (literally) to share this news: I will not be joining the Capitals this upcoming season. After many weeks of tests and conversations with specialists around the country, it’s been determined that a heart condition will prevent me from taking the ice,” he wrote.
Some tough news I need to share with you all.. pic.twitter.com/y7ZtAoo39Q
— Henrik Lundqvist (@hlundqvist35) December 17, 2020
After 15 seasons with the New York Rangers, Lundqvist signed a one year deal with the Capitals in October.
Lundqvist also recorded a heartfelt message for Capitals fans.
A message from Henrik: pic.twitter.com/JJDe2lKAXz
— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) December 17, 2020
NHL fans reacted to this sad and shocking news.
For most young fans, they’ve never seen a world without Henrik Lundqvist setting the standard for NHL goaltending, but health is so much more important than a silly game. Hope the next thing we hear from him is better news.
— Catherine Silverman (@catmsilverman) December 17, 2020
When an NHL season begins without Henrik Lundqvist taking the ice pic.twitter.com/e0qXkNltQD
— Tyler McGillick (@TylerRichard93) December 17, 2020
I’m torn up over this. One of the best guys in all of sports who just wanted to have a proper swan song in a fresh environment with a contending team.
He will be missed this season.#NHL#HenrikLundqvist#WashingtonCapitals https://t.co/uUvD4Cspgm— Chuking Like Brady (@GoSens727) December 17, 2020
I am not mentally nor emotionally ready to have a NHL season without Henrik Lundqvist in it. This isn’t fair. 2020 seriously sucks.
— Garrett (@SportyGman10) December 17, 2020
Adding to the Henrik Lundqvist praise, when I used to be in locker rooms, he was easily one of the most interesting people to talk to. Very introspective and gave you the time of day even though he's a superstar and didn't have to
— Stephen (@StephenCLorenzo) December 17, 2020
I am very sad to hear Henrik Lundqvist’s announcement. He has been a great foe for a long time. I hope everything works out for him and his health. I wish nothing but the best for The King.
— Vinnie Parise (@VinnieParise) December 17, 2020
The Henrik Lundqvist news is so shocking. I'm sad for him. I wanted to see him play for the Capitals. I truly hope he makes a full recovery. I want to see him go out on his terms. Ugh.
— Derek Brandon Felix (@DFlex2123) December 17, 2020
#Henrik #Lundqvist will go down as one of the best to ever play the game…a legend, the King of NYC, true royalty for the #NYR…it was an absolute privilege and a joy to watch him for so many years…take care of yourself @hlundqvist35, you will always be the best
— MachLandar (@MachLandar) December 17, 2020