Veteran defenseman Andy Sutton announced his retirement Wednesday.

Sutton, who turned 38 in March, was a member of the Edmonton Oilers during the 2012-13 season but did not play due to injury. He played 52 games for the Oilers in 2011-12.

"My NHL career enabled me to not only play the game I love, but to also be a part of something that so many kids dream about growing up," Sutton said through a release by the NHL Players' Association. "Throughout my 15 years in the League, I have played for some exceptional hockey teams and have met quality people and friends along the way. None of what I accomplished on the ice would have been possible without the unwavering support of my family, friends, teammates and fans who made playing hockey even more enjoyable."

An undrafted free agent who broke into the League with the San Jose Sharks during the 1998-99 season, Sutton went on to play 676 games for the Sharks, Minnesota Wild, Atlanta Thrashers, New York Islanders, Ottawa Senators, Anaheim Ducks and Oilers. He had 38 goals, 150 points and 1,185 penalty minutes, in addition to 1,164 blocked shots and 1,134 hits.

Two of Sutton's former teammates took to Twitter to wish him well:

Good luck to Andy Sutton on his retirement. was enjoyable not only playing with the big man but rooming with him. Taught me to eat sushi — Jim Slater (@slaterjim) May 22, 2013