NOW: ‘That which does not kill you can only make you stronger.’ Though cliche, it proves undeniably true at times. Just ask Quebec City native Patrice Bergeron.
After missing nearly an entire season in 2007-08 with post-concussion symptoms, Boston’s star playmaker has somehow managed to return as an even stronger force than he was before his head injury. Weighing in under 170 pounds last winter after months of physical inactivity, Patrice worked back up to his playing weight of 190 and first jumped back into competitive on-ice play in July at the Bruins rookie development camp. He exceeded expectations by standing out as “a man among boys” according to team executives. Since the regular season began last month, Bergeron certainly hasn’t shyed away from physical play as he’s regularly held posession along the halfwall and behind opponent’s nets. Each of his 3 goals thus far have resulted from persistent efforts on the forecheck, and his heady point presence on the power play has stabilized the Bruins attack with better mobility and vision. Touted for his mastery of all three zones, the star pivot’s +4 effort has made Boston a more complete club in all facets of the game as it sits atop the Northeast division at the NHL season’s quarter poll.
Click the photo above for Patrice’s career stats!
THEN: “Bergey” was somewhat of a late bloomer as a prospect in the QMJHL. His home province Montreal Canadiens passed on him TWICE in the 2003 draft before Boston selected him in the second round. Now 23, the slick-passing setup man is already in the 6th season of his professional career. From the time veteran Marty LaPointe mentored him as 18 year old Bruins rookie, Patrice has had the opportunity to play with many talented forwards during his development. He teamed up with fellow Canadian superstar Sidney Crosby in 2005 during the NHL Lockout to form the most lethal linemate combo in World Junior Championship history. The two natural centermen combined for 22 points over 6 games in route to capturing gold, and Patrice took home tournament MVP honors as well.
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Check out how Patrice got back into shape after his injury….
OFF THE ICE: Patrice’s humble demeanor and undeniable work ethic have made him a true fan favorite among blue collar Bostonians. Ever the workman, Patrice also takes time to tutor French language students in Massachusetts high schools. In the summer months Bergeron enjoys kicking back and fishing in Quebec to escape the NHL’s rigors and stresses. And that calm pressence lends itself to a humorous wit; the young center frequently quotes Will Ferrell and Steve Carell comedies with teammates in the Bruins locker room.
