Justin Williams retires after 19 NHL seasons

Mr. Game 7 is officially calling it a career.

Veteran forward Justin Williams announced Thursday his retirement after 19 NHL seasons.

"Since I first broke into the league a day after my 19th birthday back in 2000, this game has brought me so much that I will never be able to repay it," Williams said in a statement, thanking several people who helped him throughout his career.

"The countless experiences, relationships, lessons, and hardships will remain with me forever as I move on to the next stage in my life."

The 6-foot-1 winger spent the last three seasons with the Carolina Hurricanes - his second stint with the franchise - and previously suited up for the Washington Capitals, Los Angeles Kings, and Philadelphia Flyers.

Williams captured his first of three Stanley Cups with the Hurricanes in 2006. He also won two championships with the Kings (2012, 2014), earning the Conn Smythe Trophy as postseason MVP following L.A.'s 2014 run.

The 39-year-old Ontario native recorded 320 goals and 797 points across 1,264 career contests. Known for his clutch play under the spotlight, Williams amassed 41 tallies - including eight game-winners - and 102 points over 162 playoff games. He notched seven goals in Game 7s to share the NHL record with Hall of Fame forward Glenn Anderson.

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