David Krejci, the longtime center and alternate captain for the Boston Bruins, has officially announced his retirement from the NHL after 15 years in the league. Krejci was selected 63rd overall in the 2004 NHL draft by the Boston Bruins and went on to become a pivotal player for the team.

In his retirement statement, Krejci expressed his gratitude to the Bruins organization, the Jacobs family, and the fans for their support throughout his career. He acknowledged the privilege of being a part of the Bruins family and thanked everyone for their respect and support.

During his time with the Bruins, Krejci played in three Stanley Cup Finals and was a crucial contributor to the team’s victory in 2011. He leaves a legacy as a skilled player and a beloved figure in the Boston hockey community.

Boston Bruins’ David Krejci retires after 15 seasons in the NHL

4VIEW ALL PHOTOSFILE- Boston Bruins’ David Krejci plays during an NHL hockey game against the Philadelphia Flyers, Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2021, in Philadelphia. Czech Republic’s Krejci is among the players to watch at the 2022 Beijing Olympics without an NHL presence. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum, File)(WJAR) — The Boston Bruins are saying goodbye to David Krejci as the alternate captain announced his retirement on Monday.

Krejci is retiring after 15 years in the NHL.

“After 15 full NHL seasons I have decided to retire from the best league in the world,” Krejci wrote in a statement.

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He was picked 63rd overall in the 2004 NHL draft by the Boston Bruins.

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“I also want to thank the Jacobs family and the entire Bruins organization for believing in me over and over again and giving me the opportunity to be part of this amazing family for so many years,” he said in a statement.

David Krejci #46 of the Boston Bruins skates against the Buffalo Sabres during the third period at TD Garden on May 01, 2021 in Boston, Massachusetts. The Bruins defeat the Sabres 6-2. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)

He went on to play in three Stanley Cup Finals and held up the cup in 2011.

“And to Bruins fans and the city of Boston – THANK YOU,” Krejci wrote. “You have always treated me with nothing but respect and I will be forever grateful.”