Former Bruins defenseman Adam McQuaid officially announces retirement from NHL

Deep down, former Boston Bruins defenseman Adam McQuaid knew he'd never step on the ice again after the 2018-19 season. 

McQuaid, 34, officially announced his retirement from the NHL on Saturday. In a phone interview with Shane Ross of CBC News, McQuaid said he has "no regrets" and has come to terms with retirement. 

"I am beyond fortunate to have been able to play as long as I did and to have the experiences that I did," McQuaid said. "I don't look back on my situation and think, 'Oh, things got cut short … or poor me,' by any means."

Injuries and concussions plagued McQuaid throughout his NHL career, and he still is dealing with head and neck ailments. The Prince Edward Island native hasn't played an NHL game since March 2019 when he was with the Columbus Blue Jackets after being diagnosed with a herniated disk in his neck. 

In 512 games, McQuaid notched 73 points (16 goals, 57 assists), winning a Stanley Cup with the Bruins in 2011. He was drafted by the Blue Jackets in 2005, but didn't play for them until a trade that sent him to Columbus during the 2018-19 season. He also played for the New York Rangers.