Boston Bruins legend Patrice Bergeron is calling it a career after 19 seasons in the NHL, the veteran center announced Tuesday.
"It wasn't a decision that I came to lightly," he wrote in a statement. "But after listening to my body and talking with my family, I know in my heart that this is the right time to step away from playing the game I love."
Bergeron, who just celebrated his 38th birthday Monday, added that it was important to leave the NHL on his own terms.
The future Hall of Famer captured his sixth Frank J. Selke Trophy as the league's premier defensive forward in June after posting 27 goals and 58 points in 78 matchups this past season.
Bergeron ends his NHL career with 427 goals and 1,040 points in 1,294 career contests, all with the Bruins. He won the Stanley Cup with the team in 2011.
"As I step away today, I have no regrets. I have only gratitude that I lived my dream and excitement for what is next for my family and I," he said. "I left everything out there, and I'm humbled and honored it was representing this incredible city and for the Boston Bruins fans."
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