I know I have already stated something similar here, but the Boston Bruins are in for a compelling 2023-24 NHL season. A clear shift in the roster is on the way but also on delay until the franchise can clear up more cap space next offseason. Due to a purging of talent this summer for financial reasons, the outlook on the upcoming campaign looks more murky than most would prefer. Of course, those projections could shift toward positivity with one piece of highly anticipated news.
As we are all aware, Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci have yet to decide whether to return to Boston for one more season. In the case of Krejci, it seems easier to conclude that he will likely choose to retire from the NHL. For Bergeron, however, it is not as simple to determine.
Surfing the internet and social media, you can find evidence that points to both outcomes. On the one hand, Bergeron is reportedly "working out hard," leading to speculation of his return. On the other hand, we have a leaked photograph of Brad Marchand on the ice, possibly wearing a "C" on his sweater. Now I've looked at that picture for longer than any human being should, and I cannot determine whether it is indeed a "C" or an "A" on his chest. However, I find it very difficult to believe that the Bruins would place themselves in a situation where information like that could get out before an official announcement. Either way, it is out there if you are looking for information to persuade you in either direction regarding Bergeron's pending decision.
Attempting to determine Bergeron's future seems to be a fool's errand. Still, one thing is obvious. The Bruins would be much better off if Bergeron were to return to Boston for one more season.
Anyone who follows hockey can tell you that center depth is the most significant concern for the Bruins heading into this season, especially when you look at the top half of the line-up. Pavel Zacha and Charlie Coyle are both quality NHL centers. However, neither of them is at the caliber of a first-line center. In a perfect world, Zacha would slot in as the 2C while Coyle centered the third line. If Bergeron returned, that is precisely what would happen.
Even at 37, soon to be 38, he still easily sits among the top-ten centers in the NHL. If Selke Trophies were plates, he'd have enough to set up a whole dining room. The defensive skill and awareness aren't going anywhere, and he proved last season he has not missed a step offensively, recording 27 goals and 31 assists in 78 games.
Understanding that this is a "bridge year" for the Bruins, Bergeron returning would assist greatly in that transition, allowing for a less-bumpy situation at center for one more year. Then, next offseason, Boston would be equipped to address the need for a new center at the top of their depth chart with more cap space and a potentially loaded free-agent class.
Of course, if Bergeron decides to retire, he will go down as one of the greatest Bruins of all time and a sure-fire Hall-of-Famer. Does he still have what it takes to lead a successful first line? He absolutely does. Still, you can't fault someone for hanging it up while something might still be left in the tank.
Either way here's to hoping we receive an answer sooner rather than later.
Boston Bruins Blogger • 
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