### Chaz Lucius Retires at 21: A Promising Career Cut Short by Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Chaz Lucius, a highly regarded prospect for the Winnipeg Jets and a first-round pick in the 2021 NHL Draft, has announced his retirement from professional hockey at the age of 21. This decision comes after he was diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), a rare genetic disorder that affects connective tissues, leading to frequent joint injuries and complications in recovery. Lucius expressed his disappointment, stating that he had previously thought his injury struggles were merely bad luck, but the diagnosis clarified the underlying issues affecting his health and ability to play at a professional level [https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6265424/2025/04/08/winnipeg-jets-prospect-chaz-lucius-retires, https://www.cbssports.com/nhl/news/jets-chaz-lucius-2021-first-round-pick-retires-due-to-tissue-disorder-crushed-that-i-cannot-continue]. ### Breakdown of Lucius's Retirement Announcement 1. **Diagnosis and Health Concerns** - Lucius was diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, which affects connective tissues and can lead to joint instability and pain [https://www.cleveland.com/news/2025/04/nhl-1st-round-pick-retires-at-21-due-to-rare-medical-disorder.html]. - His condition has made him susceptible to injuries, prompting medical advice against continuing his hockey career [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/jets_prospect_chaz_lucius_retires_due_to_ehlers_danlos_syndrome/s1_16958_42024072]. 2. **Career Overview** - Lucius was selected 18th overall by the Winnipeg Jets in the 2021 NHL Draft and played for the Manitoba Moose, the Jets' AHL affiliate [https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/44592923/winnipeg-jets-prospect-chaz-lucius-21-announces-retirement]. - He played 25 games in the 2024-2025 season, scoring three goals and six assists [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/jets_prospect_retires_at_21_due_to_tissue_disorder/s1_17050_42026539]. 3. **Support from the Organization** - The Winnipeg Jets organization has publicly supported Lucius's decision, emphasizing the importance of his health and well-being over his career in hockey [https://www.nhl.com/jets/news/jets-statement-on-the-retirement-of-forward-chaz-lucius]. ### Summary of Findings - **Chaz Lucius's retirement** is a significant event in the NHL, highlighting the impact of health issues on young athletes. - **Key points include**: 1. Lucius's diagnosis of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome has led to his retirement due to health risks associated with the disorder. 2. His career, though brief, showed promise, with notable performances in the AHL. 3. The Winnipeg Jets have expressed their full support for his decision, prioritizing his health over his athletic career. In conclusion, **Chaz Lucius's early retirement serves as a poignant reminder of the physical demands of professional sports and the importance of health**. His story may inspire advocacy for awareness around Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and similar conditions affecting athletes [https://www.startribune.com/winnipeg-jets-prospect-announced-retirement-because-of-medical-condition/601326204].