David Pastrnak Sends Bruins Legend David Krejci a Profound Message

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Hunter Bowman
August 16, 2023 (12:57)

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In a heartfelt twist of fate, David Pastrnak of the Boston Bruins found himself not just missing a linemate in the wake of David Krejci's retirement announcement from the National Hockey League on Monday.

But also the absence of his cherished best friend who used to be a constant presence at the rink.

In a touching farewell video shared by the Bruins, it was evident that Pastrnak, hailing from the same Czech Republic as Krejci, cherished every moment spent sharing the ice with the seasoned centerman.

«Best teammate that I ever had, and I can't thank you enough,» Pastrnak said. «But again, congratulations and good luck in your next chapter of your life.»

Complementing this video tribute, Pastrnak conveyed his emotions through the team's social media channel on the X Platform, the platform formerly known as Twitter.

«He's been my best friend since I got here. I'm really going to miss him,» Pastrnak said in the message. «I have so many memories that make me think of him, especially. And that's the beauty of hockey � I found a friend for the rest of my life in 20-30 years from now, he's still going to be my friend and that's the beauty of the sport.»

From the time Pastrnak was selected in the first round of the 2014 NHL Entry Draft, he leaned on the 37-year-old veteran, both on and off the ice.

The leadership showcased by Krejci, and recently retired Patrice Bergeron, was pivotal for the team.

«Those two guys are the perfect example,» Pastrnak said on May 2 at the Bruins exit-interview day at Warrior Ice Arena. «They are some of the best leaders on the team and in the sport They've been my teachers for a very long time and the player I am and the person I am as well, it's big thanks to those guys too. It's amazing the impact they have on the young guys, as older guys and as the leaders they were.»

Pastrnak, having sported the alternate captain's badge for portions of the past two seasons, now gears up to embrace an even greater leadership role during the impending centennial season for the Bruins.

«I had the best teachers from these guys,» Pastrnak said in May. «They are incredible people and incredible hockey players when you're looking at them, you want to be like them, right? As a leader, the stuff they say, no matter how young you are, you want to be like them. So, I'm definitely very thankful and the way I grew as a person and a player, thanks to them.»

Source: Nesn