The Bruins need a new captain if Bergeron retires, who will it be?

While such gestures are expected from any captain, it was clear that these exchanges held deeper meaning. Speculation suggests that this may indeed be Bergeron's final season, marking the end of his remarkable tenure with the Bruins since 2003-2004.

Bergeron's resilience was truly remarkable, as he battled through a herniated disc in his back. Unfortunately, this injury may force him to hang up his skates for good.

Despite being a question mark throughout the series, Bergeron showcased his unwavering leadership by pushing through the pain. At 37 years old, Bergeron has accumulated an impressive record of 1,294 games (all as a Bruin) and 1,040 points, earning numerous accolades along the way.

Now, the challenging task lies ahead for the Bruins: the possibility of a new captain. While fans may not be ready to entertain this notion, the organization will eventually name a successor. It is uncertain when this decision will be made, as the team may opt for an interim captain for the upcoming season or delay the announcement until later in the 2023-24 season.

In light of this, let's consider some potential candidates for the captaincy:

David Krejci: The second-longest-serving Bruin after Bergeron, Krejci has been with the team for 16 years. At 37 years old, he could serve as a temporary captain for the next season or two, considering his potential retirement in the near future.

Brad Marchand: A polarizing figure, Marchand's on-ice skills and leadership qualities make him a strong candidate. The 35-year-old winger has garnered praise from Bergeron and has been actively involved in community initiatives in Boston. Marchand may also be facing decisions about his future with Bergeron's potential departure.

Charlie McAvoy: Among the younger generation of Bruins, McAvoy has shown leadership both on and off the ice. At 23 years old, he signed an eight-year extension, solidifying his commitment to the team. The Bruins have a history of having their captain on the blue line, making McAvoy a compelling option.

Taylor Hall: Although an unexpected choice, Hall has proven his dedication to the city of Boston since joining the team in 2020-2021. Despite his relatively short time with the Bruins, he has already displayed leadership qualities, earning the respect of fans and teammates alike. The 31-year-old winger could be a strong candidate for the captaincy or an alternate role next season.

Charlie Coyle: Another member of the Bruins named Charlie, Coyle has been actively engaged in the Boston community. At 31 years old, he could provide the team with solid leadership for several years to come.

David Pastrnak: Often overlooked in discussions about leadership, Pastrnak's impressive performance and young age make him an intriguing option. Despite not currently wearing a letter on his sweater, the 26-year-old forward has demonstrated his ability to lead both on and off the ice.

As the Bruins enter a new era without Bergeron, these potential captain candidates offer different qualities and perspectives. The organization will undoubtedly consider these options carefully to ensure the team's continued success and strong leadership.