Patrice Bergeron reportedly coming back, what does that mean for Bruins
Anthony Scultore
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Boston Bruins captain, Patrice Bergeron is reportedly going to sign a one-year deal per Joe McDonald of the Worcester Telegram. This is great news for the Bruins, who will will now have their number one center back in the fold for next season.
Earlier this month, there was uncertainty about his future which was delayed after undergoing elbow surgery. Recovery time is expected to be 10-12 weeks, just in time for training camp.
“What (the surgery) did only is it just delayed my decision-making process,” Bergeron said. “I had some MRIs and meetings with them and talks with them about what I should do and whatnot. That’s the only thing I can say about that.”
Report: Patrice Bergeron to sign one-year deal
Bergeron, 36, is coming off an 8 year-deal with a cap hit of $6.75 million. He can still play and produce recording 65 points in 73 games this past season.
He also won his fifth Selke Trophy as the NHL’s best defensive forward, previously winning the award in 2011-12, 2013-14, 2014-15 and 2016-17. Bergeron dominated in the face-off circles with a league-leading 61.9%.
“I’ve said I needed time, and I still think I have a lot of time in front of me to make that decision,” Bergeron explained after the playoffs. “I’m going to make sure that I take all the time that I need to make the right one.”
It appears the “right one” has been made not to retire.
So what does that do for the Boston Bruins plans? Many believed that at least a retool focused on getting younger was in the works. Former BU and New York Rangers head coach David Quinn reportedly met with the Bruins about their vacancy behind the bench. His calling card is his ability to develop young players like Jack Eichel and Bruins star defenseman Charlie McAvoy in college. Quinn also coached Adam Fox to a Norris Trophy last season.
Boston may still opt to go with Quinn, but since that news broke Andrew Brunette of the Florida Panthers suddenly became available after Paul Maurice became the new coach. Other options include Rick Tochett and Rick Bowness.
In the end, it will be up to President Cam Neely and GM Don Sweeney to decide if they want to hold off on the inevitable. Especially if David Pastrnak intends to go to unrestricted free agency next season.
