As the Bruins begin what they hope will be a long playoff run on Monday night, perhaps the most uncomfortable question hanging over this postseason is whether it will be Patrice Bergeron’s last.
The 36-year-old captain’s contract expires after this season, and he’s made it clear since before the season that he did not want to discuss a new one or make any decisions about his future until the season is over. That remains the case, as Bergeron has not changed his mind and has not made any decisions yet.
“Honestly, I haven’t really… I’ve done a good job of staying in the moment,” Bergeron said when asked on Sunday if anything has changed. “I think that’s where I’m at right now, still, is being ready for Game 1 of the playoffs, and that’s all I should really focus on.”
General manager Don Sweeney was also asked if he’s had any more discussions about what Bergeron might do. He said he’s “hopeful” Bergeron will play beyond this year and believes in his heart that Bergeron wants to, but that he didn’t actually have any new information to share.
“Good luck with that one. I’m doing the same thing everybody else is,” Sweeney said. “As I’ve referenced all along, my job is to put together the most competitive group that we can so that I extend his shelf life of wanting to play. His impact is not questioned in terms of what he can do on and off the ice. It’s just a matter of how long he wants to continue to do it. We’re hopeful that he does. I believe in my heart that he does, but that ultimately is Patrice’s decision. I’ve been respectful of that from Day 1, and will continue to be until he say, ‘Let’s get this done.’”
The Bruins are currently projected to have about $4.4 million in cap space this offseason, but Bergeron is their only free agent who’s more than just a depth player. They could free up more money via trade or buyout if they need to. Obviously, replacing Bergeron would be just about impossible regardless of the financials.
Bergeron had 25 goals and 40 assists in 73 games this season and, statistically, had the best defensive season any forward has had since advanced metrics entered the public sphere 15 years ago. Among 587 players who played at least 500 minutes this season, Bergeron ranked first in Corsi-for percentage (65.6%), first in expected goals-for percentage (69.2%), first in Corsi against per 60 minutes (40.2), and first in expected goals against per 60 (1.51). He also led the NHL in faceoff wins (991) and faceoff percentage (61.9%). He should be a runaway winner for a record fifth Selke Trophy.
As Bergeron has made clear, though, the conversation about his future will be for the offseason. For now, it’s all about Monday night’s Game 1 against the Carolina Hurricanes.
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