San Jose Sharks captain Logan Couture is expected to announce the end of his playing career due to a debilitating injury that has kept him out of action for over 15 months. The 36-year-old has been sidelined by osteitis pubis, an inflammation in the joint between the left and right pubic bones, and has not been able to participate in on-ice training since January 2024. Couture, who last played an NHL game on January 31, 2024, will address the media alongside general manager Mike Grier on Tuesday to make the announcement.
Having missed most of the 2023-24 season and unable to return to play, Couture will not officially retire but will cease playing while still receiving his salary under his existing contract. He has two years remaining on his eight-year, $64 million deal signed in 2018, with $13 million owed in salary for the next two seasons. Couture's absence marks the end of an era for the Sharks, as he was a key figure in the team's successes during the 2010s and was appointed captain in the 2019-20 season. Throughout his career, Couture amassed 323 goals and 378 assists in 933 games, showcasing his prowess as a postseason performer with 48 goals and 53 assists in 116 playoff appearances.