Craig Anderson revealed his retirement plans to Brady Tkachuk first

Craig Anderson, the legendary goaltender known for his remarkable career with the Ottawa Senators, recently announced his retirement from professional hockey.

Anderson revealed that it was a conversation with Brady Tkachuk, during a game in Buffalo that made him realize it was time to hang up his skates.

Here's what Claire Hanna, Ottawa Senators TSN reporter tweeted:

The heartwarming story unfolded during a game in Buffalo, where the Ottawa Senators were facing off against the Sabres.

Craig Anderson said according to Ottawa Sun:

“The moment I knew it was over for me was when Brady Tkachuk came up to me and he said, ‘Hey, are you going to play another season?'”

The exchange took place during the game, with Anderson's body cramping up due to the physical demands of the sport.

"In the second period, I made a save, I couldn’t get up because my legs had kind of cramped up, and I was kind of stunned," Anderson added. "I just knew it was the time. You can’t compete at that high level as you get older."

With the stakes high and family in the stands, Anderson recognized that it was time to step away. He recalled the moment, saying:

"There’s too much on the line in the game. I had family there. It was one of those moments where I felt like I still could, but physically there was just a moment where enough was enough. As much as I want to do it, it’s just not in the cards anymore."

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Craig Anderson signed a one-day contract with the Senators

For Craig Anderson, this decision marks the end of a remarkable career. Ottawa General Manager Pierre Dorion said:

“He was one of the greatest goalies in our franchise’s history, if not the greatest.”

To make the retirement official, Anderson signed a one-day contract with the Senators. This allowed him to retire as a member of the team he gave so much to. In a fitting gesture, Anderson dropped the puck before a faceoff against the Buffalo Sabres. Moreover, players and staff wore special T-shirts created for the occasion.