Devils all-time leading scorer Elias retires

It's the end of an era in New Jersey.

Devils legend Patrik Elias announced his retirement from the NHL on Friday.

"After 18 seasons, I am pleased to announce that I will be retiring from the National Hockey League, having played my last game with the New Jersey Devils," Elias said in a statement.

"For the past few months, I have weighed this decision both physically and mentally. I am happy to say this provides me and my family with closure."

The Devils also announced Friday that they will retire Elias' No. 26 next season. He'll be the fifth player in franchise history to earn that honor, joining Martin Brodeur, Scott Stevens, Scott Niedermayer, and Ken Daneyko.

Elias goes out as the club's all-time leader in goals (408), assists (617), points (1,025), game-winning goals (80), and hat tricks (eight).

The 40-year-old was part of two Stanley Cup championship squads, in 2000 and 2003.

Elias also won three bronze medals representing the Czech Republic - two at the world championships and one at the Olympics in 2006.