Kariya has been sidelined since November 5, 2008, with a hip injury. In January of 2009, he underwent surgery on his left hip and a second surgery on his right hip followed in February of 2009. While Kariya is expected to make a full recovery, he is not projected to return to the ice until the 2009-2010 regular season.CBSSports.com: Kariya To Also Have Surgery on Right Hip

The duo of Kariya and Teemu Selanne, along with center Steve Rucchin, was one of the most feared lines in the 1990s National Hockey League. Kariya scored 108 points in the 1995-1996 season, a career best.

A pivotal moment in Kariya's legacy took place in game six of the Stanley Cup Finals in 2003. Kariya took a mid-ice check from the Devils' Scott Stevens and laid unconscious on the ice for several seconds. After waking up, Kariya returned to the locker room. Minutes later he returned to the ice and scored, helping the Ducks win to force a game seven.

Kariya has continued to post considerable statistics and holds Predators records more goals, assists and points in a single season. He played for the St. Louis Blues in the 2007-2008 season. The team failed to make the Stanley Cup Playoffs.