The Chicago Blackhawks cleared $8.5 million in salary cap space by trading forward Marian Hossa to the Arizona Coyotes in a seven-player deal Thursday.
The 39-year-old forward, who has three years remaining on his contract, told Slovakian newspaper Novy Cas in May that his hockey career was over because of a progressive skin disorder caused by his equipment.
“I will not play hockey anymore,” Hossa told the newspaper. “I have a valid contract with Chicago for the next three years, but I have only one health and it does not allow me to return.”
Chicago also sent forward Vinnie Hinostroza, defenseman Jordan Oesterle and a 2019 third-round draft pick to Arizona. The Hawks acquired forwards Marcus Kruger and Jordan Maletta, defenseman Andrew Campbell and the rights to unsigned forward prospect MacKenzie Entwistle and a 2019 fifth-round pick.
Hossa signed a 12-year contract with the Chicago in July 2009. Because his deal doesn’t expire until after the 2020-21 season, he can’t officially file paperwork with the NHL to retire. Doing so would cause salary cap ramifications for the Hawks.