Free-agent forward Paul Kariya will miss the upcoming 2010-11 season with post-concussion syndrome. It was reported Friday evening when his agent announced he won’t be playing with former teammate Teemu Selanne in Anaheim or any other team.
It was reported by the Associated Press that Kariya has had a history of concussions over the course of his career. He missed the 1998 Olympics due to a concussion suffered when he was cross-checked by Gary Suter. He missed six games last season between December and January when he was elbowed by Blues player Patrick Kaleta elbowed Kariya.
The infraction, which can be seen here, happened December 27, 2009. Kariya didn’t return to action until January 12. The hit takes place near the boards :07 into the video clip.
What could this mean for Kariya? It could only mean that his career is all but over. Although he is only 35 years old, concussions are nothing to take lightly. We can only hope for the best for Kariya and hope he will return in 2011, but don’t count on it. His agent said nothing about retirement, but it could be best for Kariya to call it a career now before a more serious head injury could occur.
[…] head injuries such as concussions and penalties were not usually called. It could potentially cost the career of Paul Kariya, and its effects has lingered onto this season as players such as Marc Savard and David Booth will […]