Bergeron Reflects on Decision to Play Final Game Despite Outcome

"Absolutely, I would," Bergeron confirmed. "There's this idea that I played because it was Montreal. Whether against Philly or any other team, the plan was for the entire roster to be on the ice. Coach Montgomery had that strategy from the start. I'd taken four games off earlier to recover physically. It wasn't about one injury. I was in good shape. Hindsight is clear. Naturally, you wouldn't play if you knew the outcome.

"Analyzing things afterward is easy, but at that moment, I was fit. As a team, having the full roster on the ice to prep for playoffs was vital. That's what happened. It's unfortunate, but I couldn't have done anything differently. No warning signs indicated an injury before the game."

"Throughout the season, various factors led me to that decision," Bergeron said. "But ending the regular season with the best record ever, you're optimistic for the playoffs. Obviously, the ending was disappointing for everyone, especially us players who went through it.

"So, for a while, I had doubts. Yet, there were too many signs. Health comes first, considering all the games and years. It all led to the right choice for me and my family, to retire. I'd love to play forever, but I find peace in my decision. I know it's best for me."