Lightning Forward Ryan Callahan's Career in Jeopardy Due to Degenerative Back Disorder
By Max Scoli
Ryan Callahan has been a member of the Tampa Bay Lightning for six seasons, serving as an alternate captain for the team since 2015.
However, his tenure could come to an abrupt end as it has been reported that Callahan has been diagnosed with a career-threatening injury.
BREAKING NEWS: Julien BriseBois stated today that forward Ryan Callahan has been diagnosed with degenerative back disease and recommended that he no longer play professional hockey.
— Caley Chelios (@CaleyChelios) June 20, 2019
In response to the news, the Tampa Bay Lightning have placed Callahan on the long-term IR.
We have announced Ryan Callahan will be placed on long-term injury reserve. https://t.co/2amMi49Y2e
— Tampa Bay Lightning (@TBLightning) June 20, 2019
This injury will give the Lightning some cap room, but given the somber nature of the news, that's surely the last thing on their mind.
With Ryan Callahan put on long-term injured reserve, that will create needed cap space for next season. #tblightning. https://t.co/ul105IaTGu
— Joe Smith (@JoeSmithTB) June 20, 2019
Prior to his time in Tampa Bay, Callahan spent seven seasons playing for the New York Rangers, serving as their captain between 2011 and 2014. During his time in the Big Apple, he was awarded the Steven McDonald Extra Effort Award four times for going "above and beyond the call of duty." The award is named after former New York City Police Detective Steven McDonald, who was shot in the line of duty on July 12, 1986.
His best season in an NHL uniform came during the 2015 season when he scored 24 goals to go along with a career-high 30 assists for Tampa Bay.