Krejci leaves Bruins after 14 seasons to play in Czech Republic

David Krejci's time with the Boston Bruins has come to an end.

The 35-year-old announced on Friday that he's heading overseas to play in his home country of the Czech Republic. He's spent the last 14 seasons with the Bruins.

"Since the end of the season, as I have thought about my future, it has become clear that I need to make a difficult decision for my family and I," Krejci said. "At this point in my career and life, I need to return to the Czech Republic and play in front of my family who sacrificed so much to help me achieve my NHL dreams. I want to play in front of my parents, brother, and friends. I want my children to live where I grew up, and spend time with so many Czech family members who love them and create lifelong memories."

Krejci has spent his entire career with the Bruins since being drafted by the club in the second round in the 2004 NHL Draft. He's scored 215 goals and added 515 assists in 962 career games. He helped guide the club to a Stanley Cup victory in 2011 when he had 23 points in 25 playoff games.

He's been a model of consistency for the Bruins over his career, producing year in and year out. Last season, he managed eight goals and 36 assists in 51 games. He hit the 50-point mark in eight different campaigns and notched 60-plus six times.

"So for now, I want to thank all the Bruins fans for the support they have shown my family and I over the last 14 years," he said. "I will forever be thankful.

"This is not goodbye, I will not be a stranger. I will be a Bruin forever. I will see you at the TD Garden soon, and I will always bleed black and gold."