Islanders Players React After Eye Injury Ends Johnny Boychuk’s Career

It wasn’t too loo long after Johnny Boychuk announced he was ending his 13-year NHL career that the reaction from current and former teammates started to pour in.

Johnny Boychuk spent the past six seasons as a member of the New York Islanders and the guys he took the ice with on a nightly basis praised the 36-year-old defenseman for the person and player he was. Part of the legacy Boychuk leaves behind from his time on Long Island was just how important a leader he was in the locker room.

All of that showed as players reacted to the news on social media.

“It’s been an honor to share the ice with you,” Anthony Beauvillier wrote on Instagram. “Proud to call you a friend. You’ll truly be missed. Much love JB”

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A post shared by Anthony Beauvillier (@titobeauvi91)

Others took to Twitter to wish Boychuk well in his post-playing days and share their memories of playing alongside him.

Everyone knows JB as the warrior that he is. But he’s truly more than that. JB gave this to me after scoring my first NHL goal. I will never forget a gesture like that from a guy I have always looked up to. Will miss you Beezy and congrats on an incredible career! @joboych pic.twitter.com/YRcyqAGafP

— Devon Toews (@DevonToews6) November 25, 2020

Anyone who knows JB knows he is one of a kind in every way. He is a selfless teammate, who never backed down, shot every rimmed puck, has a heart of gold, and touch of moderns top customer. But above all he is always there for you.I’m lucky you call you my friend, Love you Beezy pic.twitter.com/qhS8Kkkm5g

— Anders Lee (@leeberr09) November 25, 2020

Sad day. Gunna miss you @joboych. Congrats on an amazing career! pic.twitter.com/7i34XQTtzW

— Scott Mayfield (@scottmayfield2) November 25, 2020

Even former Islanders netminder Robin Lehner took a moment to honor his former teammate.

What sad news. What an amazing career you have had man. One of the best I’ve ever played with. Best of luck in the future. @joboych pic.twitter.com/eUs5G17HNa

— Robin Lehner (@RobinLehner) November 25, 2020