Just a short while after Patrice Bergeron, the enduring leader of the Bruins and a constant force in their pursuit of championships, opted for retirement while still excelling in his game, another notable figure, David Krejci, has followed suit. Krejci, too, has chosen to step away from hockey, as he officially announced his NHL retirement in a Monday morning declaration. It’s notable that Krejci’s entire NHL career spanned 1,032 games, all with the Bruins.
BOSTON, MA – DECEMBER 27: David Krejci #46 of the Boston Bruins celebrates following his goal in the third period against the Ottawa Senators during the game at TD Garden on December 27, 2013 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Jared Wickerham/Getty Images)
Back in the 2004 NHL Draft, the Boston Bruins chose Krejci as the 63rd overall pick, recognizing his impressive playmaking skills seen during Czechia’s U-20 competition. His career began with a strong start, tallying 144 points across 117 games with the QMJHL’s Gatineau Olympiques. He progressed through the ranks, moving from the Providence Bruins in the 2006-07 season to the NHL after completing 94 AHL games. Krejci made his debut for the Boston Bruins on January 30, 2007. It’s worth noting that only Alex Ovechkin, Evgeni Malkin, and Blake Wheeler, drafted ahead of Krejci in 2004, have amassed more regular-season points, a fact highlighted by Kirk Luedeke.
However, Krejci’s legacy isn’t solely defined by numbers. Throughout his 16 years in Boston, he crafted numerous memorable moments on the ice, ranging from game-changing goals to remarkable teamwork. He tallied 555 career assists, positioning him fifth in Bruins history, and a total of 786 points, ranking him ninth in franchise records.
As we bid adieu to Krejci’s career, it’s a moment for contemplation about his grace, determination, and sportsmanship. His departure leaves us with a trove of memories that underscore his influence as a member of the Boston Bruins.
DAVID KREJCI’S MOST MEMORABLE MOMENTS:
Krejci becomes top-six center
In his second full NHL season, Krejci played a key role in Boston’s impressive 116-point season in 2008-09. As Bergeron recovered from a previous season’s concussion, Krejci became a poised center alongside Marc Savard. Teaming up with Wheeler and Ryder, Krejci excelled as a playmaker, recording 73 points (22 goals, 51 assists) in 82 games. This marked a 46-point increase from his previous season and became his highest single-season point achievement.
Krejci's return
MONTREAL, CANADA – JANUARY 24: David Krejci #46 of the Boston Bruins celebrates his goal with teammates during the third period of the game against the Montreal Canadiens at Centre Bell on January 24, 2023 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The Boston Bruins defeated the Montreal Canadiens 4-2. (Photo by Minas Panagiotakis/Getty Images)
Krejci’s return to Boston strengthened their top lineup after playing abroad. His $1 million NHL contract highlighted his readiness, with 46 points in 51 games overseas. Despite his age, Krejci aimed high and used his experience for the playoffs, achieving 56 points in 70 games alongside Pastrnak and Zacha. In the 2022-23 season, he marked another milestone with his 1,000th game for the Bruins. Humbly thanking the crowd, he then contributed three assists in a dominant 6-0 win against the Flyers.
