Patrice Bergeron provides some clarity on what teams he's willing to play for next

There has been speculation for months surrounding the future of Patrice Bergeron in Boston. Bergeron is without a contract heading into the off season and speculation ran rampant that he might have interest in leaving Boston. Many felt his connection to new Canadiens' General Manager, Kent Hughes might be enough to lure Bergeron home.

After the Carolina Hurricanes knocked the Bruins out of the playoffs, Bergeron sat down with Boston media to discuss his future. During his media availability Bergeron was bluntly asked if he had any plans of playing anywhere other than Boston and Bergeron happily answered.

No. No I won't play anywhere else but Boston. I've been here for my whole career. It's a special place for me. Playing anywhere else is not on my mind. Right now I just need to take time and regroup if I want to play next season or not right now I just don't know.

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Bergeron has played his entire career as a member of the Boston Bruins, including being a big part of their 2011 Stanley Cup team. Bergeron has also represented Canada on numerous occasions including the Olympics. He's considered the best two way center in the NHL and could potentially win his 5th Selke Trophy this June.

Bergeron though is a pending free agent, who has suffered many injuries over his career and is just looking for an opportunity to rest and make the best decision for himself and his family.

Bergeron just told the media he needs time to rest and think Bergeron's decision isn't about his pay day, role, or where the team it's going.

I'm gonna need some time to just think about a lot of things. Obviously, it's a family decision. It's a decision and it's time that I need in order to make the right decision. As far as the team, I've always believed in what this organization has done as a whole. They've always made sure they would put the best team forward on the ice, and I believe they'll do that in the future as well. I think we have some great players in this locker room, and most of which are coming back. For me, it's not something I'm concerned about. It's more about taking time to make right decision for me and my family.

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POLL
18 MAI \| 242 ANSWERS Patrice Bergeron provides some clarity on what teams he's willing to play for next What will Patrice Bergeron do next?
Retire	81	33.5 %
Return for one more year	161	66.5 %
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