Former Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman David Savard is set to retire following his playoff run with the Montreal Canadiens.

Savard, 34, has spent 14 seasons in the NHL and said he made the decision around Christmastime when he realized it was time to hang up the skates.

“Around Christmastime I kind of knew what my body felt like,” Savard told the media. “My body's just kind of failing a little bit. By that time, just thinking about going through another summer, another season, you just don't see yourself doing it. So I was just going to enjoy it and play as hard as I can.”

It’s been a great career for Savard. Unfortunately, this is often the main reason why players walk away from the game. He’s always played a physical style and consistently put his body on the line night in and night out.

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Savard has tallied 54 goals and 188 assists for 242 points in 879 regular-season games, along with one goal and 15 assists for 16 points in 57 playoff appearances.

Before officially calling it a career, he'll look to help his hometown Canadiens make a playoff run. Montreal takes on the Washington Capitals in the first round, starting Monday in Washington.

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