Blackhawks veteran might have to give up hockey because of an allergic reaction to his equipment

“Because of the dramatic nature of the medications required and their decreasing effectiveness, we strongly support his decision not to play during the 2017-18 season,” Terry said. “We feel in the most certain terms this is the appropriate approach for Marian in order to keep him functional and healthy in the short term and throughout his life.”

While the 38-year-old still has four years remaining on his contract with the Blackhawks, between the severity of the condition and necessity of its treatment, it’s possible that Hossa has laced up his skates for the final time.

Drafted in 1997, Hossa has already put in a career performance worthy of the Hall of Fame. Between 2008-10 he played in three consecutive Stanley Cup Finals with three separate teams, finally winning the Cup with the Blackhawks in 2010, and winning it two more times with Chicago after that.

Hossa has amassed 525 goals and 609 assists for 1,134 points over the course of his career, and has spent time playing in Ottawa, Atlanta, Detroit, Pittsburgh and Chicago.