Jakub Kindl, the 39‑year‑old Czech defenseman who helped the Bordeaux Boxers clinch the French League championship this past season, is weighing his next move after a decorated career that has spanned three continents.
The Boxers praised Kindl as a true giant of the sport, noting that his contribution was pivotal in securing the title and marking his second championship in three seasons, the first of which came with Storhamer in Norway's league during 2023‑24.
Kindl's journey began as a first‑round pick of the Detroit Red Wings in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft, a franchise for which he logged 293 games between 2009‑10 and 2015‑16, before stints with the Florida Panthers, the Grand Rapids Griffins of the AHL, and brief periods in Germany, Finland and Norway.
What lies ahead?
Having announced he will not return to Bordeaux for the upcoming campaign, Kindl has left the door open on retirement, saying he is still evaluating his options while cherishing the memories of two league titles and a long‑standing NHL pedigree.
The next chapter may involve a final playing stint in a league where he feels valued, or a transition into coaching or administration, but for now the veteran remains focused on savoring the achievements that have defined his 17‑year odyssey.