Now, we need to ask whether Saturday's Boston season was the end of the Bruins captain. Patrice Bergeron.
The 37-year old center will be an unrestricted, free agent in the offseason. He declined to participate in contract extension negotiations during the season. After the Bruins' 3-2 defeat to the Carolina HurricanesAs he was leaving the ice, Bergeron hugged his teammates. It was a tradition. Was it the last time?
Bergeron declared, “It is too early right (to say)” It's still too young. It's still painfully obvious that it was a difficult series and we lost. “I'm going to need to think about it, however I'm not there at the moment.”
Bergeron was clearly emotional during the postgame media availability. He was not only reflecting on the future but also on the series just ended. Boston overcame a series deficit by fighting back and it still resonated. He scored one assist in Game 7 of the Boston Bruins' loss to the Bruins, and the series ended with three goals (and seven points) for the Bruins.
Bergeron stated that it is always difficult to lose, but that it's something you can be proud of and how you fought. “We were disappointed tonight. We needed more. It hurts and it is not what you want.
Bergeron is free to take his time deciding what the next step should be. Bergeron can call it a career if he does. The Selke Trophy winner is awarded to the league's most outstanding defensive forward. He will be retiring with 1,216 regular-season games, 400 goals and 982 point. Bergeron helped the Bruins to the 2011 Stanley Cup championship title. He was also part of two Eastern Conference champion teams in 2013-2019.
Bergeron's devastating impact on the Bruins was underlined by the actions of a teammate, forward and other teammates. Brad MarchandWhen discussing his next steps, he couldn't help but feel emotions.
Marchand said, “Whatever the outcome, he's entitled to make whatever decisions he wishes and take the time he requires.” “I guess it will be time to find out.”
Bruce Cassidy, coach of the Boston Celtics, said “I hope it's not over”, when asked whether Bergeron was over. “He meant so much to this franchise.”
It will also impact the Bruins' trajectory forward in whatever direction Bergeron goes. They are unsatisfied and Carolina will advance to the second round against Carolina's winner of Game 7 on Sunday between the Bruins. Pittsburgh Penguins New York Rangers.
