Doctors Suggest Retirement For $17 Million Chicago Blackhawks Defenseman

Osteitis pubis is inflammation in the joint between the left and right pubic bones and typically causes pain and swelling in the groin or lower abdomen, Murphy has been struggling with this for quite some time now.

Murphy hasn't played since New Year's Eve when he suited up for the 2025 Winter Classic and has been dealing with the ailment dating back to last season when he missed 38 games, retirement is now looming.

The Blackhawks reporter, Pope, writes that Murphy feels he could return to game action in the near future, however, doctors don't agree with him and believe that he will struggle to play without interruptions for the rest of his career.

Murphy has dealt with injuries throughout his career, playing more than 70 games just twice since 2017, compared to 656 games he could've played if healthy throughout that span.

31-year-old Murphy was on pace for the best offensive season of his career before the injury, posting one goal 12 assists in 38 games.

Given where the Blackhawks are in the standings, they would likely have shopped the 12-year veteran, but now with the uncertainty surrounding Murphy's health, it is likely retirement is now looking for the aging blueliner, rather than a trade to a destination that promotes the idea of winning a Stanley Cup soon.