Former Blackhawks forward Brad Richards announces his retir

After 15 seasons in the NHL, Brad Richards is calling it a career. 

The former Blackhawks forward and two-time Stanley Cup champion announced his retirement on Wednesday afternoon.

 

Richards released this statement on his decision:

 

“I want to thank the fans and the five organizations I have played for: Tampa Bay, Dallas, and the three original six teams — the New York Rangers, Chicago, and Detroit. During my time with those teams I met many great people. I also want to thank the staff and management in those organizations for all the help and support they gave me. I appreciate all the trainers who did tireless work to help me play and keep me healthy. I had many amazing teammates and made many great friendships along the way that I truly appreciate, and I will never forget the great times we had together. Thank you to all my coaches for pushing, teaching and giving me the opportunity to play this great game. Winning the Stanley Cups in Tampa Bay and Chicago was the best part of my career and I will never forget those moments. Nothing compares to enjoying that night with your team and knowing what you have accomplished together."

 

Richards, 36, was a vital part in bringing the Stanley Cup back to Chicago for the third time in six years in 2015.

In his only year with the Blackhawks, he registered 37 points (12 goals, 25 assists) in the regular season and tacked on three goals and 11 assists in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

One of Richards' most memorable moments with the Blackhawks came in Game 6 of the  Stanley Cup Final against the Tampa Bay Lightning, his former team.

With the Blackhawks up 1-0 with a little over five minutes left to play, Richards fed a 2-on-1 pass to Patrick Kane — which he buried — to extend the team's lead to 2-0. The score held and the Blackhawks won their first Stanley Cup on home ice.

In 2004, Richards helped bring Tampa Bay their first Stanley Cup. He ranks fourth in Tampa Bay's all-time scoring list with 489 points.

In 1,126 games played, Richards finished his career with 298 goals and 634 assists (932 points). In 146 postseason games, he has 37 goals and 68 assists (105 points).

	Tampa Bay Lightning @TBLightning
Stick taps on an incredible career, @BRichards_1991. Always a Bolt ⚡️ pic.twitter.com/B8MNoZaGDQ 1:10 PM - 20 Jul 2016