Penguins' Dupuis 'to step away from the game' due to blood clots
A medical condition related to blood clots has ended Pascal Dupuis' NHL playing career, the veteran forward and the Pittsburgh Penguins announced on Tuesday.
Dupuis encountered several medical incidents this season that were related to the condition that significantly shortened his 2014-15 campaign. The 36-year-old Quebec native has undergone a series of tests after prematurely exiting contests this season, with the the most recent occurrence coming last Tuesday in a 5-1 win vs. the San Jose Sharks.
"It was very difficult for me to make this decision to have to step away from the game,” Dupuis told the team's website. “My wife and four children have always been my first priority, and playing with my condition has become a constant worry for all of us. I want to thank my teammates and the Penguins organization for their unwavering support during this difficult time.”
Dupuis was diagnosed with a blood clot in his lung in November 2014 and sat out the remainder of the season.
Dupuis has two goals and as many assists in 18 games this season. A Stanley Cup champion with Pittsburgh in 2009, Dupuis recorded 190 tallies and 219 assists in 871 career contests with the Minnesota Wild, New York Rangers, Atlanta Thrashers and Penguins.
