One of the greatest two-way forwards of all time and long-time Boston Bruins center Patrice Bergeron decided to hang up the skates on Tuesday.
The Boston legend played all 19 seasons for the historic franchise after getting drafted in with the 45th pick in the second round in 2003.
“It is with a full heart and a lot of gratitude that today I am announcing my retirement as a professional hockey player.
As hard as it is to write, I also write it knowing how blessed and lucky I feel to have had the career that I have had, and that I have the opportunity to leave the game I love on my terms. It wasn’t a decision that I came to lightly. But after listening to my body, and talking with my family, I know in my heart that this is the right time to step away from playing the game I love.” He said in a statement on NHL.com
The Canadian flirted with retirement last summer before returning to Boston on a one-year deal. He helped push the Bruins to one of the best regular seasons in history. Setting records for the most wins and points in a single season.
The 2011 Stanley Cup Champion tallied 1,040 points, 427 goals, and 613 assists. He also collected a record six Selke Trophies, the trophy awarded to the best defensive forward in the league. He took the hardware home twice in the past two years.
Bergeron’s legacy in Boston, and on the league and fans of the NHL, will not be forgotten for a long time. He helped shape the game into what it is today and is the blueprint for how to be a professional hockey player. He inspired countless kids and showed them the love of the game. The Bruins were lucky to have him sport the Spoked-B for the past two decades.
“Finally, to the next generation of hockey players. I had a dream at 12 years old, and through hard work and perseverance my dreams came true more than I ever could have imagined. Respect the game and your peers. Welcome adversity and simply enjoy yourself. No matter where you go from there the game will bring you so much happiness,” he said.
“As I step away today, I have no regrets. I have only gratitude that I lived my dream, and excitement for what is next for my family and I. I left everything out there and I’m humbled and honored it was representing this incredible city and for the Boston Bruins fans.”
