Colorado Avalanche: Facing Concussions in Modern Hockey

Sep 22, 2014; Anaheim, CA, USA; Colorado Avalanche center Jesse Winchester (18) moves the puck defended by Anaheim Ducks left wing John Kurtz (41) during the third period at Honda Center. The Anaheim Ducks defeated the Colorado Avalanche 4-0. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports

Colorado Avalanche Jesse Winchester

by Nadia Archuleta

On the other end of the spectrum from Adam Deadmarsh, we have center Jesse Winchester. The Colorado Avalanche picked him up as a free agent signing in the summer of 2014.

He has never appeared in a regular season game for the Colorado Avalanche.

During a 2014 preseason game against the Calgary Flames, Jesse Winchester took a hit, and he collided into the boards. It didn’t look bad at the time, but Winchester didn’t clear the concussion protocol.

Winchester started suffering from post-concussion symptoms related to vision. He felt vertigo when in a crowded building — such as the Pepsi Center during hockey games. The symptoms persisted long enough into the season, that the Colorado Avalanche eventually announced he’d miss the whole season. It was hoped a full year off from hockey would allow his brain to heal.

Apparently it did not. Winchester came into training camp looking strong, but his vision problems returned. He’s still on injured reserve.

No one has made any retirement announcements yet. As another season wears on, you’ve got to think it’s only a matter of time, though.

Next: Before Their Prime