A.J. Perez

USA TODAY Sports

Center Brad Richards announced his retirement after 15 NHL seasons on Wednesday.

Richards, 36, was a free agent who had played with three teams over the last three seasons — the New York Rangers (2011-14), Chicago Blackhawks (2014-15) and Detroit Red Wings (2015-16). He spent his first six-plus seasons with the Tampa Bay Lightning, where he won the 2004 Stanley Cup and earned the Conn Smythe as the playoff MVP. He also won a Stanley Cup with the Blackhawks in 2015.

“I want to thank the fans and the five organizations I have played for: Tampa Bay, Dallas, and the three original six teams — the New York Rangers, Chicago, and Detroit,” Richards said in a statement released by the NHL Players' Association. “During my time with those teams I met many great people. I also want to thank the staff and management in those organizations for all the help and support they gave me."

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Richards, a one-time All-Star, compiled 932 points in his career (298 goals and 634 assists). His best campaigns came in 2005-06 (with the Lightning) and 2009-10 (with the Dallas Stars) when he notched 91 points. Richards also won the Lady Byng during the 2003-04 season.

“Winning the Stanley Cups in Tampa Bay and Chicago was the best part of my career and I will never forget those moments. Nothing compares to enjoying that night with your team and knowing what you have accomplished together,” Richards said.

Richards, a third round pick of the Lightning in 1998, signed a nine-year, $60 million deal with with the Rangers before the 2011-12 season. He spent three seasons with the club before he took a buyout.