Canadian star Daniel Briere has announced his retirement from the National Hockey League.

"I've been very, very fortunate to have a chance to play with some great organizations, but at this point the family becomes a priority," he said in a statement.

"The Flyers are where I played the bulk of my career. I've had a great time in Philadelphia and have been very, very fortunate to have the chance to play here."

The 38-year-old played just 57 games, scoring eight goals and totaling 12 points for Colorado Avalanche last season.

Briere, drafted in the first round 24th overall in 1996 by the Phoenix Coyotes, made 53 goals and 116 points in 124 playoff games and had 696 points in 973 career regular-season games.