Crawford announces his retirment

Corey Crawford, who helped the Blackhawks win two Stanley Cups, retired Saturday less than three months after signing with the Devils and less than a week before the start of the NHL season. The 36-year-old goalie made the announcement after a week of speculation about his future. He did not practice this week. Devils coach Lindy Ruff said the decision was for personal reasons. Crawford said in a statement he wanted to continue his career, but believed he had given all he could to the game. Crawford said playing in the NHL was a childhood dream and he was proud to have been a part of winning two Stanley Cups. Blackhawks forward Patrick Kane called Crawford an exceptional player who always seemed in a good mood. “Still feel that he’s playing at a really high level, going back to last year in the playoffs,” Kane said. ”I guess just wish him all the best. Obviously, we’ll have conversations and talk to him, but sometimes there are bigger things than hockey.” Crawford played in 10 NHL seasons and 488 regular-season games.