Longtime Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Chad Ruhwedel announced his retirement from the NHL on Tuesday.

Ruhwedel, 35, began his career with the Buffalo Sabres, signing as an undrafted free agent in April 2013, and he played there until signing with the Penguins before the 2016-17 season.

He then spent eight of his 13 NHL seasons with the Penguins and helped the team win the Stanley Cup in 2017. He also played with the Rangers, skating in five games last season with New York and in 50 games with the team’s American Hockey League affiliate in Hartford.

“Playing in the NHL has been a dream come true,” Ruhwedel said in a statement. “I’m incredibly grateful to the Buffalo Sabres, Pittsburgh Penguins, and New York Rangers organizations for giving me the opportunity to live that dream. While there have been countless unforgettable moments on the ice, it’s the relationships and friendships built along the way that I cherish most.

“To my family, teammates, coaches, fans and countless others who supported me, thank you for being a part of this amazing journey.”

Ruhwedel recorded 50 points (13 goals, 37 assists) in 369 career games with the Sabres, Penguins and Rangers.

–Field Level Media