Christian Fischer retiring from NHL at 28

Former Arizona Coyotes, Detroit Red Wings, and Columbus Blue Jackets forward Christian Fischer is retiring from the NHL following a nine-year career.

The 28-year-old became an unrestricted free agent this summer but is walking away from the sport to spend more time with family.

"Probably in the last year or two, I've really thought about just kind of what I want to do with my life, and what makes me happy, and spending time with my friends and family," Fischer told The Athletic's Max Bultman. "And obviously, listen, I know if I were to play another five or six years, I could do that when I'm 34, 35, I understand that. ... It's what makes me happy, and it's what I want to do."

The Coyotes selected Fischer in the second round of the 2015 draft, and he played seven campaigns with the franchise. His best showing was a 15-goal, 33-point season in 2017-18.

He signed with the Red Wings in 2023-24, then was picked up on waivers by the Blue Jackets this past season. He only suited up once for Columbus.