Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci, Newly Retired, Watch Bruins' Opener as Fans

Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci, who retired from the NHL, were present for the Bruins' season opener against the Chicago Blackhawks.

The Boston Bruins' season opener on Wednesday night against the Chicago Blackhawks brought unexpected surprises as former players Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci, who retired from the NHL this past summer, made appearances at the game. The Bruins honored their centennial team, which included both Bergeron and Krejci, in a pre-game ceremony at the Garden. Krejci expressed his excitement about the special day, highlighting the significance of celebrating 100 years and 100 players in the team's history. Bergeron arrived shortly after and acknowledged that watching the game instead of playing would bring mixed emotions for him. He admitted that the feeling of fall and the start of the season triggered something inside him, but he was at peace with his decision to retire and wished the team the best.

Krejci shared a similar sentiment, mentioning that seeing pictures of the team during training camp made him realize that hockey was his life and what he was supposed to do. However, he recognized that his body could no longer handle the demands of the game. Despite missing it, Krejci accepted his situation and acknowledged that he played hard in his final years and had nothing left to give.

Bergeron, although not having watched the team much during the preseason, expressed his eagerness to see rookie center Matt Poitras play. He commended the team on its commitment to ensuring a strong future and praised Poitras for pushing his way into the lineup at a young age. Bergeron advised Poitras to soak in the moment, learn from the experienced leaders on the team, and be prepared for the fast-paced nature of the NHL.

Meanwhile, Pavel Zacha and Charlie Coyle, two players with more NHL experience, will take on greater responsibility in the absence of Bergeron and Krejci. They will face higher expectations and more ice time as they fill the roles previously held by the retired centers. Krejci offered words of encouragement, emphasizing the importance of self-belief and confidence in the league.

Overall, the Bruins' season opener not only marked the beginning of a new season but also served as a tribute to the team's history and the legacy of players like Bergeron and Krejci. While they may no longer be on the ice, their presence and support for the team continue to be felt.