Patrice Bergeron named captain of the Boston Bruins

Upon Zdeno Chara’s departure, there was a clear and logical choice for who would succeed him as the 20th captain in Boston Bruins history: Patrice Bergeron.

Bergeron, entering his 17th season with the Bruins, embodies everything that a captain should be on and off the ice. His teammates consistently glow about him as both a mentor and a friend, and he is an involved member of the community.

Combined with his point production and tireless 200-foot style of play, Bergeron is a no-brainer selection for the role - and the Bruins made it official this morning.

“It’s a privilege to name Patrice the 20th Captain of the Boston Bruins,” said Bruins President Cam Neely. “For 16 seasons we have all watched Patrice grow not only into an elite player but also a tremendous leader. Patrice represents the Bruins organization and our fans with integrity, determination and class. On and off the ice he embodies what it means to be a Bruin, and we couldn’t be prouder that he will lead our team as Captain.”

A 2011 Stanley Cup Champion, Bergeron won the 2012-13 King Clancy Memorial Trophy, awarded “to the player who best exemplifies leadership qualities on and off the ice and has made a noteworthy humanitarian contribution in his community”. He is also a four time Franke J. Selke Trophy winner, awarded to the forward who shows the most skill in the defensive aspects of the game. Nominated for the award each of the past nine seasons, Bergeron’s four wins are tied for the most all-time. In 2014, Bergeron won the NHL Foundation Player Award, awarded to the player “who applies the core values of hockey—commitment, perseverance and teamwork—to enrich the lives of people in his community”.

The list of Bergeron’s accomplishments is seemingly never ending. The game-changing hockey player with natural leadership qualities makes a perfect choice as captain.