Mike Weber is retiring from professional hockey. Weber, 30, announced his retirement today via the Flounda HC, where he played in just 10 games largely due to his chronic injury.
For 341 games over nine for the Buffalo Sabres and their AHL affiliate in Portland. In 2015-16, Weber played 10 games for the Washington Capitals. In 2016-17, Weber played 56 games for the Minnesota Wild's AHL affilaite in Iowa.
Injuries have gotten the better of the rugged D-man, who played this seaon in Frolunda of the Swedish Elite League.
In 351 career games, the Pittsburgh, PA native scored 9 goals and 44 assists for 53 points.
Weber played his first NHL game for the Sabre at age 19.
Drafted by Buffalo Sabres in the second round (#57 overall ) at the 2006 NHL Entry Draft, Weber was not intended to be a new age puck moving rover-defenseman.
Not Weber. He knew his role. He stayed in his lane and played a brand of heavy, hard hockey.
Weber was the stay at home defenseman's defenseman. He played an honest, true game. If Ryan Miller needed a shot blocked, Weber would jump into harm's way. Somebody messing with Thomas Vanek? No worries, Weber would chuck the knucks and make sure the malarkey ended there and then. Needed the crease cleaned? Weber would gladly hack and whack and clear a path for his goalies to see the puck through.
Weber was a blue collar man through and through.
One door is closing on Weber's career while another door is opening. Weber is hoping to begin a coaching career, either in Europe or in North America.
I have nothing but respect for "Webby". He was always a great conversation, even in the most difficult of times. He was as honest with the media as he was performing his role for his team on the ice. Mike Weber always made time to speak with me, even after brutal losses. I have all the respect in teh world for Weber. I wish he, his wife and family all the luck in the hockey world. Weber is a smart man. It won't be long until he is teaching the game of hockey.
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