Patrik Elias Retires from NHL After 19 Seasons

Longtime New Jersey Devils forward Patrik Elias announced Friday he will retire after 19 NHL seasons.

The Czech Republic native made it official with the following video, courtesy of the team's Twitter account:

The 40-year-old spent his entire NHL career with the Devils.

Elias hasn't played this season, but he will suit up for the Devils during the pregame skate prior to New Jersey's home finale against the New York Islanders on April 8, per Andrew Gross of The Record.

According to NHL.com's Dan Rosen, the Devils will retire Elias' No. 26 jersey next season.

During his lengthy and successful career, Elias appeared in 1,240 regular-season games, registering 408 goals and 617 assists.

He is the all-time franchise leader in most major offensive categories. Elias competed in four NHL All-Star Games and won a pair of Stanley Cups.