Konowalchuk retires; tests find risk of irregular heart rhythms
September 29, 2006

DENVER (AP) -- Colorado Avalanche forward Steve Konowalchuk retired Friday after tests showed he has Long QT Syndrome, a genetic disease that can lead to irregular heart rhythms.

"After a complete evaluation from a number of different physicians and experts associated with this condition, we decided that this was the best and only alternative for me," Konowalchuk said.

Konowalchuk, 33, had 171 goals and 225 assists in 790 games over 13 seasons. He had 52 playoff appearances, with nine goals and 12 assists.

He was drafted by the Washington Capitals in 1991 and acquired by the Avalanche in 2003.