After an 18 year NHL career, Carolina Hurricanes forward Justin Williams could be about to call time on his career. The question is, should he?
Adored by fans across the league, the Carolina Hurricanes winger Justin Williams is a picture of leadership, professionalism and hard work. In my relatively short time following hockey, I’ve never seen Williams give anything less than 110% effort.
Picked 28th overall by the Philadelphia Flyers in 2000, Williams’ stint at the Flyers saw him play for three different coaches in four seasons before he was eventually traded to the Carolina Hurricanes in 2004.
In his first spell with the Carolina Hurricanes, Justin Williams would go on to secure the first Stanley Cup success in franchise history. A team captained by Rod Brind’Amour, who would later go on to become Williams’ head coach during his second spell in Raleigh.
Williams was then traded to the Los Angeles Kings. I was not a hockey fan at this point, so I really don’t know how the Carolina Hurricanes fans took this news. I understand that the Carolina Hurricanes were acquiring the much loved Erik Cole and that Williams was plagued with injuries.
The trade for Cole boosted the Carolina Hurricanes’ chances in the playoffs, especially considering Williams was out indefinitely with a broken hand. Williams went on to be a superstar in California for the Los Angeles Kings.
He added Stanley Cup number two and three to his résumé and was awarded with the Conn Smythe Trophy for his performance in 2014. Williams then entered free agency for the first time in his career.
He was eventually snapped up by the the Washington Capitals and, unfortunately for him, leaving right before they were crowned Stanley Cup Champions. Entering free agency for the second time, Williams looked like he was about to return ‘home’.
You cannot overstate how much of an impact Williams has had on the Carolina Hurricanes franchise since re-joining. Even basing everything on this most recent season alone.
Williams seems to be the link between the fans and the team. A team that is relevant again and having more fun than ever. Oh, and people do tend to forget that they’re also quite good now.
The time has come for Williams to make a decision about his future. I would love to see Williams put on the Carolina Hurricanes sweater again, but I don’t think it’s going to happen. It’s time to call time on his glittering NHL career.
Walk into the @NHLCanes locker room and Justin Williams is sitting in his locker with his kids. All are in tears trying to console one another. You don’t need a picture.
— Jeff Gravley (@JGravleySPORTS) May 17, 2019
Every professional athlete wants to go out at the top of their game. Some are fortunate enough to play for many years, others sadly cut short. This is Williams’ chance to go out on a high.
He himself admitted he had nothing left in the tank after the series versus the Boston Bruins and with the league seemingly getting quicker every year, how much longer can Williams keep up with the pace? I realise I might catch some heat for that last statement.
One thing that’s for certain is that the Carolina Hurricanes would be foolish not to involve Williams in the team in some capacity moving forwards. Having a guy like him in your team as a coach would provide valuable experience to each and every young player looking to make the grade.
Martin Necas is primed and waiting for his chance to shine outside of the Charlotte Checkers, Williams’ retirement gives him the perfect platform. Maybe the Carolina Hurricanes will give Andrew Poturalski his chance in the NHL after his incredible AHL season.
Either way, the Carolina Hurricanes are in good hands if Williams decides to retire. I’ve certainly fallen in love with him during my first NHL season and I’m convinced he loves every one of us fans back.
Goodnight, Mr Game 7.
Question for the fans: Do you think this is Justin Williams time to retire? Let us know by commenting below!