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New Oilers defenceman acquired in trade nearly retired last year at age 24
New Oilers defenceman Spencer Stastney, nearly retired at age 24 last season, but now is looking like an underrated future piece for Edmonton.
The Oilers paid a 3rd round draft pick to Nashville to acquire Stastney, whose immediate role will be to fill-in for Brett Kulak on the 3rd pair. There are some promising numbers that he could be a great piece for the Oilers, but he nearly ended his career last year.
Edmonton Oilers defenceman nearly retired at 24 years old
In an interview with the 32 Thoughts Podcast, Stastney explained that he felt he needed to retire after recognizing his joy at a playoff elimination, and being depressed about coming to the rink.
I remember sitting in the locker room after that last game, and it was in Milwaukee. And I was looking to my left and I was looking to my right. And I wasn't in a great place.
And I was at that point, like I was, I'm retired. I was struggling every day with, I think, depression, anxiety. I mean, a little bit of everything, it felt like. And it was just overwhelming. I would call the therapist in Nashville almost every day before the game for what seemed like hours, just crying.
I think I'm still getting used to wanting to do more and wanting to score and wanting to do this and that. But it's something that's coming and something that I'm still working on.
- Spencer Stastney
And I was at that point, like I was, I'm retired. I was struggling every day with, I think, depression, anxiety. I mean, a little bit of everything, it felt like. And it was just overwhelming. I would call the therapist in Nashville almost every day before the game for what seemed like hours, just crying.
I think I'm still getting used to wanting to do more and wanting to score and wanting to do this and that. But it's something that's coming and something that I'm still working on.
- Spencer Stastney
He's continued with his career after consulting the Player Assistance Program, Therapy, and speaking to veterans in the Predators organization. Now he's back up in the NHL, and playing very well.
In 30 games with the Predators this season, Stastney's scored 9 points. He's shown impressive puck moving and skating skills, which should fit great with Edmonton's roster. Analytically, he's been a solid player.
To play for the love of the game, there's no better place than Edmonton. The passion of Oil Country pairs through to every player, and the fanbase has had a great trend of uplifting players in challenging personal circumstances.
Oilers fans will be rooting hard for Stastney, and hoping that he can be a real piece in their future.