There have been strange retirements in the world of hockey before, but the one that involved a former New Jersey Devils prospect might take the cake on Monday. Mike Gould on Twitter reported that current Russian player Nikita Popugaev leaving the fastest game on ice. Popugaev was selected in the 4th round by the Devils in the 2017 NHL Draft. Unfortunately, he undoubtedly had some complications come with his hockey career.
The roller coaster and downfall of Nikita Popugayev began in the 2018-19 season. Popugayev started as a prospect with some promise and a fantastic shot.