New York Rangers forward Sean Avery announced his retirement yesterday on Bravo network's "The Dish."
"I threw my skates in the Hudson," he said.
During his announcement, in typical Avery fashion, he reminded "Fashion Star" mentor Nicole Ritchie, another guest on the show, that the Hudson is a river in New York.
The news was confirmed by The New York Post. Avery's agent rebuffed the information, saying his client is not done in the sport.
Once considered an integral piece of the New York Rangers rebuilding plan, Avery never got on the good side of Rangers Head Coach John Tortorella. He also struggled offensively, scoring just three goals in 76 games last year.
Playing in only 15 games this year, Avery appeared out of place on a faster, younger Rangers team. "I think we have better players than Sean Avery, plain and simple,” Tortorella told the media following one of his demotions to the team's AHL affiliate in Connecticut.
The change of scenery didn't help the 31-year-old. He played just seven games for the Whale and publicly wondered when he'd ever get another chance with the Rangers.
Consistently in the news for comments made on and off the ice, Avery was an agitator hated by the opposition, but often admired by the cult-like fans of the team's he played for. Making stops in Los Angeles, Detroit and Dallas in addition to his two-stops with the Blueshirts, Avery showed flashes of brilliance, but may be remembered more for his antics and behavior that some felt hurt the locker rooms of the teams he played for. He led the NHL in penalty minutes in 2004 and 2006.
While with the Rangers, Avery made headlines outside the sport on numerous occasions. He expressed an interest in fashion and interned for Vogue during one off-season. He also worked for Men's Vogue helped a company launch a line during Fashion Week in 2009. He is an active advocate for Gay Marriage.
