Montreal Canadiens forward unexpectedly announces his retirement at 34

Although he's well-known to Habs supporters, in recent years Laval Rocket supporters have become more acquainted with him.

The veteran player Bourque, who has played for the Laval Rocket in the AHL for the last three years, declared in a French interview on Thursday morning that he is ending his playing career.

The Nashville Predators selected the 5'9" winger in the fifth round of the 2009 NHL Draft, marking the beginning of his NHL career. He later went on to play one more season in the QMJHL with the Moncton Wildcats, where he won the championship.

He played with the Nashville Predators during the 2011 NHL season, and he has since participated in 413 NHL games. Bourque was a player for the Winnipeg Jets, Colorado Avalanche, and Predators. In the NHL, he scored 40 goals and a total of 103 points.

In addition, he participated heavily in AHL play before capping his career as the Rockets' captain. Not only did he score 70 points with the Canadiens' affiliate club, he also helped the young players develop with his experience and leadership.

Additionally, Gabriel Bourque disclosed that he has already secured employment in hockey. He was appointed Lionel-Groulx College Nordiques' assistant coach in Ste. Therese, Quebec.

As he embarks on this new chapter in his career, we wish him all the best.