The Boston Bruins have faced challenges early in the 2024-25 season, posting an 8–8-3 record through 19 games, currently on pace to win just 34 over the full regular season.
Former captain and franchise legend Patrice Bergeron, who retired last year after spending 19 seasons with the Bruins, believes the team needs more time to gel but remains confident in their potential once they click.
Speaking to The Hockey News on Saturday, Bergeron addressed the Bruins’ early struggles and highlighted the challenges of integrating new players.
“They have a lot of new guys, a lot of guys coming from different teams,” Bergeron said. “Sometimes it takes a little longer to adjust or come together as a team, but they’ve shown a lot of great things through some stretches.
“They have a good team that I really believe in.”
Bergeron, who captained Boston to numerous playoff appearances and was part of the Stanley Cup-winning run in 2011, has more than his fair share of NHL experience to be believed when it comes to staying patient.
The former captain stressed the importance of remaining close, forming a sense of unity, and focusing on finding internal solutions and growth as a team.
“Sticking together and trying to fix the things you need to work on as a team is key,” Bergeron said. “But also, build from the good things and don’t listen to whatever is on the outside.
“Work together as a team to get better and create the results you want.”
The Bruins named Brad Marchand their team captain after Bergeron’s retirement, and this is the second season for Marchand leading the team carrying the “C” on his chest.
Bergeron revealed that while he maintains a close friendship with Marchand, their conversations aren’t always centered on hockey, as the former doesn’t think he needs to give the latter any advice.
“We talk. It’s not necessarily just about hockey; it’s about life,” Bergeron said. “He’s done such a great job, so he doesn’t need me or anyone else to help him along the way.
“He’s handled it tremendously well, and I’m proud of him.”
The Bruins (19 points) lost back-to-back games last week but will be back on the ice on Monday as they play the Eastern Conference-worst Columbus Blue Jackets (14 points) trying to break their losing streak.
