Corey Perry gets very emotional discussing Ryan Getzlaf's retirement (w/video)

There was a time in the NHL when Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry seemed inseparable. Both were taken in the first round of the NHL draft by the Anaheim Ducks in 2003. Just four years later, the pair won a Stanley Cup while also winning individual accolades along the way. Now, with both in their late 30s, Getzlaf has announced he will retire at the end of this season. Perry, who is currently playing for the Tampa Bay Lightning, was asked about this in a pre-game interview Tuesday night and couldn't help but get emotional.

"He's meant everything," said Perry when asked about Getzlaf's decision to hang up his skates. "We were drafted together, came in together, we didn't live together but may as well have."

"To see what he's done with that organization, to put his stamp on it, and to finally call it a career, it sucks, but things come to an end."

Perry went on to talk about how Getzlaf was a major reason why he had so many goals throughput his career, adding his passes meant all he had to do was put the puck in an open net. He then gave Getzlaf his best wishes, while choking back tears in the process.

"From a family man to a close friend, congratulations on a great career and good luck with everything," said Perry in a very shaky voice.

Getzlaf will retire as the Ducks all-time points leader. Perry has another year left on his contract with the Lightning. He has not yet said what his plans are following the 2022-23 season.