Veteran Detroit Red Wings forward Kris Draper announced his retirement from hockey during a press conference on Tuesday.
The 40-year-old centre won four Stanley Cups in 17 seasons with the Wings.
Draper leaves Detroit as one of five players who have appeared in over 1,000 games for the franchise, joining Gordie Howe, Alex Delvecchio and former teammates Steve Yzerman and Nicklas Lidstrom.
"I loved everything about the game and everything about the Red Wings and that's why I'm going to miss it so much," Draper said.
"I know how fortunate I am to play this game, to live my dream out. I had one dream and that was to play in the NHL. I never thought I was going to last this long.”
The Toronto native totalled 158 goals and 208 assists since joining the Wings in the 1993-94 season.
"Kris Draper has represented the Detroit Red Wings with nothing but class and dedication for the last 17 years," Red Wings General Manager Ken Holland commented.
"His extraordinary work ethic has provided a great example for all players within our organisation and his influence on the young players in our system will be felt for years to come. I cannot thank Kris enough for all he has done for us. He is a true professional."
