Jets prospect Chaz Lucius retires due to Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome

Winnipeg Jets prospect Chaz Lucius announced his retirement from professional hockey Tuesday due to the effects of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS).

Lucius made the announcement via his agent Craig Oster and Newport Sports, stating, “Recently, I was diagnosed with EDS which is a hereditary disorder that affects the connective tissue that stabilizes and supports the joints and organs throughout the body. As I struggled with incurring and recovering from various joint injuries over the past several years, I had thought I was just unlucky. Wth the diagnosis of EDS, I now realize that my body impacted by EDS could not handle the physical nature of playing hockey. Given this condition, my injury history, and the physical nature of hockey, I have been medically advised not to continue to play.”

Originally chosen 18th overall by Winnipeg in the 2021 NHL Draft, Lucius spent the past three seasons with the AHL affiliated Manitoba Moose. Through 25 appearances with the Moose in 2024-25, Lucius recorded three goals and six assists for nine points, while over 54 career contests with the farm club he collected 27 points counting seven goals and 20 assists.

Beyond his time in professional hockey, the 21-year-old native of Lawrence, Kan., also saw success in international competition, most recently in taking home a bronze medal with Team USA at the 2023 World Juniors where through seven appearances he put up five goals and two assists for seven points. Lucius also joined the Americans at the 2019 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge where he paced the tournament with 10 points counting seven goals and three assists in six outings en route to a silver medal finish. For his efforts, Lucius was recognized as part of the tournament’s All-Star Team.

In his statement, Lucius pledges to become an advocate for those suffering from EDS.