Bruins name Patrice Bergeron 20th captain in franchise history

The Boston Bruins have named Patrice Bergeron the 20th captain in team history, the team announced Thursday.

Bergeron takes over the team’s captaincy following the departure of Zdeno Chara, who held the role for 14 seasons in Boston. Bergeron is entering his 17th season with the Bruins and ranks third in games played (1,089), fifth in goals (352) and sixth in points (869).

“To be captain of an Original Six franchise is an honor, and a role that comes with much responsibility to his teammates and the fans,” Bruins owner Jeremy Jacobs said in a team statement. “There is no doubt in my mind that Patrice is the natural successor to the captain role, and he will represent this franchise very well. He has consistently and reliably contributed to this team’s advancement and has been an adept leader for many years, both on and off the ice. His tenure as captain will be one of great success.”

The 35-year-old was selected by the Bruins in the second round of the 2003 NHL Draft. He has won the Selke Trophy four different times and was awarded the King Clancy Memorial Trophy in 2013.

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