Carey Price, the iconic goaltender for the Montreal Canadiens, has been a cornerstone in the world of ice hockey. Known for his exceptional skills and resilience on the ice, Price has built a career that cements him as one of the best goaltenders in NHL history. However, recent developments surrounding his injuries and the potential end of his playing career have left fans wondering about his future. In this article, we delve into Carey Price’s career, recent updates, and what lies ahead for the hockey legend.
Carey Price, 37, was born on August 16, 1987, and has spent his entire NHL career with the Montreal Canadiens. However, due to a series of severe injuries, including knee, hip, and ankle issues, Price is no longer expected to return to the ice as an active player. Despite these setbacks, his impact on hockey remains strong, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
Key Takeaways
- Carey Price is regarded as one of the greatest goaltenders in NHL history, having spent his entire career with the Montreal Canadiens.
- Due to persistent knee injuries, Price has confirmed he won’t play again, but his retirement will only be official when his contract ends in 2026.
- Price signed an eight-year, $84 million contract in 2017, which is still active, making him one of the highest-paid goaltenders in NHL history.
- Even though he isn’t actively playing, Price is still involved with the team, recently participating in events to kick off the 2024-2025 season.
Carey Price’s Early Career and Rise to Stardom
Carey Price was drafted 5th overall by the Montreal Canadiens in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft. His talent quickly shone through, and by the time he made his NHL debut in 2007, Price was already a highly anticipated prospect. His calm demeanor and exceptional reflexes earned him the starting goalie position, where he became a vital player for the Canadiens.
Over the years, Price developed into one of the league’s premier goaltenders. Known for his ability to make clutch saves, his career highlights include winning the Hart Trophy and Vezina Trophy in 2015, which are awarded to the league’s most valuable player and the best goaltender, respectively.
Carey Price’s Injuries – A Career Marred by Health Issues
Unfortunately, Price’s career has been significantly impacted by injuries. His most notable struggle has been with a persistent knee injury, which has kept him out of regular play since the 2021-2022 season. Price also faced hip and ankle problems, adding to his challenges. These health issues have sidelined him and led to speculation about his future in the sport.
What Happened to Carey Price?
The knee injury that has been the focal point of Price’s health problems required multiple treatments, and even after considerable rehabilitation efforts, it became clear that returning to the game was unlikely. In interviews, Price has acknowledged that while he has not officially retired, his days of playing professional hockey are over.
Carey Price’s Contract and Financial Outlook
In 2017, Carey Price signed an eight-year, $84 million contract with the Canadiens, with an annual salary of $10.5 million. Despite not playing, he continues to be one of the highest-paid goaltenders in the league, as his contract does not expire until after the 2025-2026 season.
Since he has been placed on long-term injured reserve, his salary does not count against the Canadiens’ salary cap. This status allows the team some financial flexibility while still paying Price under the terms of his contract.
| Year | Event | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| 2005 | Drafted by Montreal Canadiens | 5th overall pick |
| 2015 | Won Hart and Vezina Trophies | MVP and best goaltender |
| 2017 | Signed eight-year, $84 million contract | $10.5 million annual average salary |
| 2021-2022 | Last played NHL season | Knee injury prevents further play |
| 2024-2025 | Involved in team activities despite injuries | Attended events to kick off new season |
| 2026 | Expected end of contract | Officially retires once the contract expires |
Carey Price’s Personal Life – Family and Life Beyond Hockey
Off the ice, Carey Price has a fulfilling family life. He is married to Angela Price, and together they have three children. Angela has often shared insights into their life through social media, giving fans a glimpse of the family’s everyday moments and their support for Carey during his recovery.
Carey Price’s height, standing at 6 feet 3 inches (1.91 meters), along with his athletic build, contributed to his goaltending success, allowing him to cover more of the net and make difficult saves look effortless. Even as he steps away from playing, his physical presence remains notable during his public appearances and involvement with the Canadiens.
Carey Price Latest News 2024 – What’s Happening Now?
As the 2024-2025 NHL season begins, Carey Price has returned to Montreal, not as a player but as a figurehead of the team. His presence has been felt through his participation in events, such as autograph sessions and meetings with the team. Although his role has shifted from being an on-ice leader to an ambassador of sorts, Price’s connection with the Canadiens and their fans remains strong.
Is Carey Price Officially Retired?
Although Carey Price has confirmed that he will not be returning to play due to his injuries, his retirement is not yet official. Under NHL rules, Price will not be formally considered retired until his contract concludes in 2026. This arrangement allows him to remain on the long-term injured reserve, which financially benefits both Price and the Canadiens.
FAQs
Did Carey Price retire?
No, Carey Price has not officially retired. He has confirmed that he will not play again due to injuries, but his retirement will only be official once his contract ends in 2026.
What is Carey Price’s injury?
Carey Price’s primary injury is a knee problem that has not healed sufficiently for him to continue playing. He has also dealt with hip and ankle issues.
When is Carey Price coming back?
Carey Price is not expected to return to play in the NHL due to his knee injury. He remains involved with the Montreal Canadiens in a non-playing capacity.
What is Carey Price’s salary?
Carey Price earns an annual average salary of $10.5 million under his current contract, which runs through the 2025-2026 season.
How old is Carey Price?
Carey Price is 37 years old, born on August 16, 1987.
What are Carey Price’s career stats?
Over his career, Carey Price played 712 regular-season games with a goals-against average (GAA) of 2.51 and a save percentage of .917. He achieved 361 wins, 261 losses, and 49 shutouts.
Who is Carey Price’s wife?
Carey Price is married to Angela Price, and they have three children together.
Carey Price’s journey has been one of resilience and excellence, even in the face of adversity. As he transitions from his playing career, his legacy remains intact, inspiring both hockey fans and future athletes alike.