NHL: New Jersey Devils Goalkeeper Slams Retirement Speculation

The current NHL season remains to be on hold due to the global pandemic. This, however, hasn’t stopped the rumors to go around. One speculation that was recently slammed was how the New Jersey Devils Goalkeeper Cory Schneider was said to be contemplating retirement.

While the current situation has made it difficult to make progress as a team, Schneider shared that he’s been making the most of his time to train himself more.

Per the NHL website, Schneider is looking to further improve on his wellbeing as a member of the Devils.

"It's all about trying to be in peak physical condition because I feel good, mentally," Schneider said.

"I want to continue my career. I haven't entertained thoughts of retirement at all."

The veteran goalie has been a solid name in the sport ever since he was selected in the NHL entry draft in 2004. The lefty was selected 26th overall by the Vancouver Canucks and he decided to pursue his education and suit up for the Boston College Eagles.

With all the experience Schnieder gained, he kicked off his NHL career with the minor league affiliate of the Canucks, the Manitoba Moose of the American Hockey League. From there he would develop as one of the better goalkeepers in the league.

The Devils would secure a seven-year deal with him in 2013 and have consistently been a big part of New Jersey’s defense.

Despite a stellar run with the Devils that includes an All-Star selection in 2016, Schneider has been disrupted by multiple injuries. He’s had issues with his hips as he had surgery to repair torn cartilage back early in 2018.

"I have two years left on my contract and my obligation and my goal is to do that and see where it goes from there," he said.

"I'm not naive to the business side of things, but feel that when I'm playing well, I can do a lot for our team on the ice and off the ice. That's the role that I want to fill," Schnieder adds.

The 34-year-old shared that despite the stigma that comes with his age, he’s ready to adapt and improve his game as much as possible.

"You may not have the flexibility or some of the physical traits you had when you were younger, but I think as you get older, you gain more perspective and I think you're more sharper and you can think the game better than when you were younger," Schnieder shared.

With everything that is happening now, Schneider remains positive about the situation and is seeking to head back and make an impact on his team.