On the one hand, Brad Marchand signed a six-year deal with the Florida Panthers at 37, and on the other hand, Christian Fischer, a Columbus Blue Jackets right winger, decided to step away from the NHL rink at 28.
Fischer’s decision was made while the NHL community was still reeling from the free agency frenzy. As reported by The Athletic, Fischer’s agent, Craig Oster of Newport Sports Management, failed to reach the winger over the phone to discuss free agency plans. Little did Oster know, the 28-year-old had already decided to retire after nine seasons with the Arizona Coyotes, Detroit Red Wings, and Blue Jackets.
What Does Christian Fischer Have Planned for His Future?
Fischer does not have grand plans for his life off the rink. As NHL Insider Max Bultman, known for his coverage of the Red Wings, stated, the 28-year-old hasn’t shared details about his future, but he is pursuing a business opportunity in Arizona.
“Fischer wasn’t ready to share specifics about that next chapter publicly just yet, beyond that, he’s moving on to a business opportunity in the golf world with a close friend in Arizona.”
Christian Fischer is retiring from professional hockey after nine seasons. 😯 https://t.co/fRdedqZDhU
— theScore (@theScore) July 4, 2025
Over the years, Fischer has played a significant role, on the rink and beyond, with his teams.
Fischer’s NHL career, which spanned nine eventful seasons, ended with the right winger realizing that maybe it was time for a new chapter. “At his age, Fischer could have had plenty of good professional playing years ahead of him, in his role as a trusted checker, penalty-killer and locker room glue guy. But increasingly, he had found himself being pulled in another direction.”
The winger’s heart belongs to Scottsdale, Arizona, where he spends his time in the warm company of family and close friends. Fischer does not have a grand reason for leaving; for him, it is merely about embarking upon a new chapter in life. “I wish there was a big reasoning why, but in the end, I’m very thankful for the career I had, but just personally I think I know it’s time for a new chapter in my life.”
Fischer’s NHL career might be over, but the former Blue Jackets winger looks back fondly on the journey. He expressed gratitude for his coaches and teammates on his way out, acknowledging he did not get as far as he did just on his own. “I’m very thankful for all the people I’ve come across, and I’d tell you right now: I didn’t get here on my own,”.
The 28-year-old tallied 137 points (75 assists and 62 goals) over 523 regular-season games. His career high came with the Arizona Coyotes during the 2017-18 season, when he finished with 33 points over 79 regular-season games.