Have We Seen the Last of Patrice Bergeron's Playing Career?

It seems rare that an individual commands respect from all 32 NHL fanbases. Hardly ever is a player as universally respected & unilaterally revered like Patrice Bergeron is. He embodies the epitome of everything one could want in a hockey player, leader, competitor & human. First class all the way, the Bruins' Captain's future is in question. It's no secret Bergeron regularly battled injuries, and even he has said the toll on his body has been severe. So, with the Bruins losing in seven games to the Carolina Hurricanes in a bloodbath of a series, what is next for Patrice Bergeron?

After the post-game handshake line, Bergeron saw every one of his teammates off the ice:

The bear hug by Jake DeBrusk said more than one could ever say with their mouth. But it's obvious the Bruins players sense that Bergeron is weighing retirement. Or, worst case scenario, a change of scenery. Though, that's unlikely.

Bergeron is a shoe-in for yet another Selke Trophy nomination, so while he wouldn't quite be going out on top it's safe to say he's still playing at the top of his game. Fluto Shinzawa of The Athletic penned a piece outlining this very question, and when asked about it Bergeron said it is simply too soon after the fact to make any final decisions.

However, the fact is that 37's contract is up, and the Bruins have questions to answer themselves. Is the team good enough, can they afford quality players, etc.

So, it's plausible to speculate that Bergeron's career may be approaching an end. However, we won't know for sure until Patrice publicly declares his intentions.

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