Former Winnipeg Jets Captain Blake Wheeler Retires After 16 NHL Seasons

Blake Wheeler, longtime captain and all-time points leader of the Winnipeg Jets, officially retired from the NHL after 16 seasons, concluding a career with 1,172 games played and 943 points. Wheeler, 38, last played in the 2023-24 season with the New York Rangers before suffering a severe leg injury that sidelined him for most of the season and ultimately led to his decision to retire. Despite a brief playoff return, Wheeler admitted he no longer had the physical or mental capacity to continue playing. Drafted in 2004 and spending the majority of his career with the Jets/Thrashers franchise, Wheeler ranks first in franchise history in games played, assists, and points. He reflected on his career with a sense of peace and is now focused on family life, citing the injury as a clear turning point for stepping away from professional hockey. Wheeler leaves behind a legacy as a respected leader and top-tier playmaker in the NHL.