Boston Bruins center David Krejci has announced his retirement from hockey, bringing an end to his successful NHL career. Krejci, who has played his entire career with the Bruins, was selected by the team in the second round of the 2004 draft. With 786 points in 1,032 regular-season games, Krejci currently sits ninth on the Bruins’ all-time scoring list. His best season came in 2008-09 and 2018-19 when he recorded 73 points.
Krejci’s legacy in Boston is defined by his role as the center of the Bruins’ No. 1 line during their Stanley Cup-winning season in 2010-11. Playing alongside Milan Lucic and Nathan Horton, Krejci was instrumental in the team’s success. He earned the nickname “Playoff Krech” for his ability to elevate his performance during critical moments. In the 2010-11 playoffs, Krejci led all scorers with 23 points. He repeated this feat two years later, scoring a league-high 26 points as the Bruins reached the final but fell short against the Blackhawks. Krejci’s postseason success continued throughout his career, accumulating 128 points in 160 playoff games, tying him with Patrice Bergeron and Brad Marchand for second place in Bruins’ playoff scoring history.
Known for his ability to control the pace of the game and create space for himself and his teammates, Krejci’s style of play made a significant impact as the sport became faster. Despite not playing in the NHL during the 2021-22 season, Krejci’s return to Boston in 2022-23 saw him contribute 56 points in 70 games.
With Krejci’s retirement, the Bruins lose a talented scorer, veteran leader, and lifelong Bruin. His presence in the locker room was valued by teammates, who credited him for his calmness and dry sense of humor. Krejci’s impact extended beyond his own performance, as he played a crucial role in helping David Pastrnak achieve career highs in goals and assists during the 2022-23 season. Pastrnak referred to Krejci as his “big brother,” highlighting the close bond between the two Czech players.
Krejci’s retirement comes shortly after Patrice Bergeron’s departure from the team, leaving the Bruins with a significant void at the center position. Pavel Zacha, formerly the No. 2 left wing, is expected to step up and take on the responsibilities left by Bergeron and Krejci. Zacha had a breakout season in 2022-23, setting career highs in goals, assists, and points. His speed and commitment make him a promising candidate for the role. Additionally, Charlie Coyle will likely move up to the second line to fill the gap left by Krejci. Coyle has been a reliable center on the third line throughout his Bruins career.
As the Bruins move forward without Krejci and Bergeron, the team will need to rely on their younger players and make adjustments to their lineup. The retirement of a player like Krejci is significant, and it remains to be seen if the team will retire his No. 46 jersey, joining the other retired numbers at TD Garden.
In conclusion, David Krejci’s retirement marks the end of an era for the Boston Bruins. His contributions to the team, both on and off the ice, have left a lasting impact. As the Bruins navigate a new chapter without Krejci and Bergeron, they will look to their young talent to step up and fill the void left by these veteran leaders.