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New Jersey Devils forward Brian Boyle has been diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia, the team announced Tuesday. The type of leukemia Boyle was diagnosed with forms in bone marrow. Team doctor Michael Farber said it was discovered early and is treatable.
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The 32-year-old Boyle doesn't plan on being sidelined long, though the team doesn't yet have a formal timetable for his return.
"I don't like missing games," Boyle said on a conference call. "I feel as close to normal as you can feel."
Boyle signed a two-year, $5.1 million deal in the offseason with the Devils. He knows the season opens on Oct. 7 and is keeping that date in mind in case his treatments go well.
"We have a good plan of attack and I look forward to getting on the ice and playing," Boyle said
He owns 93 goals and 169 points in 624 NHL games with the Los Angeles Kings, New York Rangers, Tampa Bay Lightning and Toronto Maple Leafs.
Boyle recorded 25 points (13 goals, 12 assists) last season while splitting time with Tampa Bay and Toronto.
He plans on being a contributor again in the near future.
"I've been blessed so many times and in so many ways," Boyle said. "This is an opportunity for me. I plan on living a normal life."
