Following Dupuis retirement, Sabres' McCormick weighs playing with blood clots

When Pittsburgh Penguins winger Pascal Dupuis announced last week that he would retire due to continued complications from a blood clotting issue, Buffalo Sabres center Cody McCormick saw a glimpse of his possible future. McCormick also suffers from blood clots, and he has not played in a game since a blood clot in his lungs ended his season last Jan. 9. 

McCormick has been able to practice with the Sabres, but he has not been cleared for any game action because he still requires blood thinners. McCormick told The Buffalo News he could be on blood thinners for the rest of his life. If so, the 32-year-old would have to hang up his skates for good. 

Via The Buffalo News:

McCormick, a father to three young girls ranging in age from six years old to eight months old, has been able to spend more time at home with his family since he isn't traveling on road trips, and he said he is willing to sacrifice his career if it means he will be able to keep coming home to his family. 

But like Dupuis, McCormick said he never thought his career would end due to blood clots. McCormick is still seeking all the medical opinions he can find as to whether there is any way to keep his playing days alive. So for now, he simply skates with the Sabres in practice and holds on to hope. Then he goes home and cherishes the ability to tuck his daughters in at night.