The end of a giant legend. Boston captain Patrice Bergeron has retired. Hall of Famer, Krejci is clear

For 19 years, Patrice Bergeron shined in the NHL. But he decided his body had had enough and retired at 38. It’s a huge loss for Boston, which lost its captain and one of the league’s best centers.

He’s been stretching out his storied career for a year. Last summer, he faced the decision of whether to sign in Boston for one more year or call it a career. Perhaps the return of David Krejci and the chance for the “Last Dance” made him put on his skates once more.

All season long, the Bruins looked great, the Bruins became the best regular season team ever, they looked unstoppable. They were also great in the playoffs, leading Florida 3-1. But then came the collapse. The Panthers turned the series around and unexpectedly eliminated Boston.

The big shock may have played a role in the decision. Bergeron was again faced with the decision of whether, at 38, he would go through all the hard work again and play another season. In the end, he told himself no more.

Boston is going to lose a lot. The six-time Selke Trophy winner for best defensive forward and member of the triple gold club can’t be replaced overnight. Especially when Boston doesn’t have any big draft picks.

Bergeron’s stats speak for themselves, as he jumped into 1,294 games in the regular season, collecting 1,040 points on 427 goals and 613 assists. He added 128 points on 50 goals and 78 assists in the playoffs.

The loss of his teammate will be mourned especially by his teammates in the locker room, where he was very popular. “What a career! There are so many things I want to say. But most of all, I appreciate the fact that we were friends for so many years. We won together, we lost together, we grew together. It was a fantastic career and I see you in the Hall of Fame, no doubt about it,” said David Krejci in his farewell video.

“Congratulations on your amazing career, you should be proud of yourself. I wish you and your family the best of luck in the next step of your life,” added David Pastrňák.

Source: Boston Bruins