OHL defenceman forced to step away from hockey due to concussions

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Cooper Godin
January 9, 2024 (6:46 PM)

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Former London Knights defenceman Ethan MacKinnon.

Photo credit: CHL

The first ten days of January are always very busy for teams around the Ontario Hockey League due to the trade deadline, but for one London Knights defenceman, his career has unfortunately been forced to come to an end.

On Monday, the London Knights announced that overage defenceman Ethan MacKinnon will be stepping away from hockey due to concussion related symptoms.

"Ethan is a leader in our room and he still will be. The players look up to him and he shows them what it means to be a London Knight. Ethan has been a warrior for this team over the past few seasons. His health is the top priority and though it's difficult and disappointing, it's the right thing to do for his bright future ahead." � Vice President & General Manager, Mark Hunter said.

MacKinnon, 20, has been with the London Knights for the last three seasons, but has only been limited to six games during the 2023-24 campaign, which was already set to be his last in the Ontario Hockey League as he ages out.

The London native won't be leaving the organization however, as the team has announced he'll remain with them as a Player Development for the rest of the season and 2024 OHL Playoffs.

It's always tough to see players forced into retirement early due to injury and all of us here at Blade of Steel wish Ethan MacKinnon all the best moving forward.

Previously on Bladeofsteel

Anaheim Ducks reportedly trying to trade Trevor Zegras

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25-year-old defenceman on waivers

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9 JANVIER \| 402 ANSWERS OHL defenceman forced to step away from hockey due to concussions Are you a fan of the Ontario Hockey League?
Yes	197	49 %
No	83	20.6 %
Never watched an OHL game before	105	26.1 %
See Results	17	4.2 %
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