Jake Gardiner, the former Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman who once sparked both admiration and frustration among fans, has transitioned into a new chapter of his life after persistent back injuries effectively ended his NHL career.
Gardiner, born on July 4, 1990, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, was drafted 17th overall by the Anaheim Ducks in 2008. However, he never played for the Ducks, as he was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2011 along with Joffrey Lupul for Francois Beauchemin. Gardiner quickly established himself as a dynamic, offensive-minded defenseman in Toronto. Over eight seasons with the Leafs, he showcased his exceptional skating and playmaking abilities, becoming a key component of their defensive corps. His best seasons came in 2017-18, where he recorded a career-high 52 points.
However, Gardiner's tenure in Toronto was also marked by scrutiny due to costly turnovers and defensive lapses. Despite the criticisms, his offensive contributions and overall talent were undeniable.
After his contract with the Maple Leafs expired in 2019, Gardiner signed a four-year, $16.2 million contract with the Carolina Hurricanes. Unfortunately, his time in Carolina was plagued by persistent back issues. In September 2021, the Hurricanes announced that Gardiner would undergo back and hip surgery and be placed on long-term injured reserve. Although he was medically cleared to play in June 2022, he suffered a setback and did not attend training camp that year. He remained on long-term injured reserve until his contract expired.
The specific injury that Gardiner battled was a herniated disc, a condition where the gel-like center of a disc bulges into the spinal canal, compressing the nerves and causing pain. This can be caused by a sudden traumatic event or repetitive motions.
Today, at 35 years old, Jake Gardiner has moved on from his professional hockey career. He is currently a territory director for Camber Road, a financial institution that leases equipment to venture-backed companies. Gardiner resides with his wife, Lucy, and their two children. While his time on the ice may be over, Gardiner has transitioned into the next phase of his life, applying his skills and experiences in the business world.