Mike Ribeiro’s NHL journey came to an end last year when he was sent to the minor leagues mid-season, and now it seems as though his professional career is finished entirely. In a heartbreaking article by Richard Labbé of La Presse, Ribeiro’s agent Bob Perno reveals that the former All-Star forward has relapsed into alcohol abuse and has not received any contract offers for the upcoming season.
All I know is that Mike has not put on the skates once since the end of the season, he’s not training and he’s not on the ice anymore. He will retire. There is not a single NHL team or even a European team that has called me to inquire about his services. The way his career is going to end is very disappointing.
Unless something changes, Ribeiro will finish his career having scored 793 points in 1,074 games. His on-ice contributions have been tremendous over the years, reaching a career high of 83 points with the Dallas Stars in 2007-08. That year Ribeiro added another 17 in the Stars’ playoff run, losing in the finals to the Detroit Red Wings. He would never get that close again, though he would play 67 playoff games in his career.
Ribeiro was a second-round pick by Montreal back in 1998 and quickly showed his immense offensive potential, dominating the minor leagues before becoming a perennial top playmaker in the NHL. His 565 career assists actually put him 103rd all-time in the NHL. His career will end just seven points shy of 800, and tied for 163rd all-time.
Him relapsing is sad to hear. He was one of my absolute favorite players while here in Dallas. Super quiet around fans but always willing to sign whatever you had for him. His style of play was awesome to watch. Favorite moment was him quieting the LA crowd after a sick SO move.
Sad way to end his career. Wishing nothing but the best in retirement.