 On June 21 , 2008 , Sakic had a talk with Colorado General Manager François Giguère and said that he is uncertain with his future with the Avalanche . However , it was announced on August 27 , 2008 , that Sakic decided to sign a one @-@ year contract with the team . Injuries limited Sakic 's playing time in 2008 – 09 . A herniated disk in his back forced him to stop playing in early November , after playing in 15 games , in which Sakic scored 12 points . While at home letting his back heal , Sakic broke three fingers in a snow @-@ blower accident . He announced his retirement on July 9 , 2009 The Avalanche retired his jersey , # 19 , prior to their 2009 – 10 season opener on October 1 , 2009 , with a " C " on the banner to represent his lengthy service as team captain ( having been the only captain of the Avalanche until he retired ) . Sakic was also named the inaugural member of the Avalanche Alumni Association . 
