The Vegas Golden Knights and the hockey world are facing the potential end of an era as defenseman Alex Pietrangelo steps back from the game due to health concerns. The announcement, made at the start of July 2025, casts a shadow over the Golden Knights' future and prompts reflection on Pietrangelo's impactful career.
Pietrangelo's decision comes after a season where he battled through injuries, managing to play 71 regular season games and 11 playoff games. Despite the pain, he contributed 33 points in the regular season and six in the playoffs. However, the toll on his body has become unsustainable. Golden Knights General Manager Kelly McCrimmon revealed that Pietrangelo is dealing with hips that would require bilateral femur reconstruction, a procedure with no guarantee of success. He has been placed on long-term injured reserve.
"The past few years have been very challenging on my physical well-being, and I am in a difficult position with my overall playing health," Pietrangelo said in a statement. He further explained the difficult decision to "remove the intensity of hockey to see if my body can improve so that I can return to a normal quality of life".
McCrimmon emphasized the organization's full support for Pietrangelo, stating, "Alex has our organization's full support in prioritizing his long-term health and quality of life". The team knew the steps Pietrangelo needed to take to play and practice were taking a significant toll on his body.
While Pietrangelo's future in hockey remains uncertain, his career to date has been remarkable. Drafted fourth overall by the St. Louis Blues in 2008, Pietrangelo quickly developed into a premier defenseman. He spent 12 seasons with the Blues, captaining the team and leading them to their first Stanley Cup victory in 2019. In 2020, he signed a seven-year contract with the Golden Knights, bringing his leadership and skill to Las Vegas.
Throughout his NHL career, Pietrangelo has been known as a two-way defenseman with exceptional hockey sense and leadership qualities. He has consistently logged heavy minutes, contributing both offensively and defensively. His career totals include 148 goals and 489 assists in 1087 regular season games. In 149 playoff games, he has recorded 15 goals and 65 assists.
Pietrangelo's potential departure creates a significant void for the Golden Knights. He was a key player on their blue line, providing stability, experience, and offensive production. The team will need to find a way to replace his contributions, whether through free agency, trades, or internal development. The Golden Knights have already acquired Mitch Marner, and Pietrangelo's LTIR status frees up cap space. The Golden Knights finished the 2024-25 season with a 50-22-10 record, clinching the Pacific Division title. They defeated the Minnesota Wild in the first round of the playoffs but lost to the Edmonton Oilers in the second round.
As Alex Pietrangelo steps away from the ice, the hockey world acknowledges a career defined by skill, leadership, and a Stanley Cup championship. While his playing future is unclear, his impact on the game will undoubtedly be remembered.
