Patrice Bergeron celebrated his 38th birthday on July 24 and announced his retirement one day later. The Boston Bruin legend will go down as an outstanding leader and one of the greatest to ever lace up the skates.
Patrice Bergeron will fondly be remembered as an exceptional leader and a masterclass of a defensive player. Throughout his career, Bergeron was nominated for the Frank J. Selke Trophy twelve times and won it six times, the most by an NHL player (2012, 2014, 2015, 2017, 2022, 2023). The trophy is awarded to the player who demonstrates an exceptional skillset in the defensive component of the game.
In NHL 23, Patrice Bergeron is viewed no differently. Although his overall in the game dropped in NHL 23 from a 91 to an 89, his defensive stats remain the best. Patrice Bergeron’s Defensive Awareness is tied for the highest rating alongside Nashville Predator’s Roman Josi. At a whopping 96 rating, Bergeron has an exceptional reaction time and field of view in defensive situations, including pass interceptions, acquiring loose pucks, and disrupting plays. Coupled with his 93 Stick Checking, Patrice Bergeron is a feared opponent to go up against, and any player looking to shut down their opposition could rely on Bergeron to get the job done.
Winning draws is critical in hockey, especially at a competitive level like the NHL. It helps teams get first possession and, more importantly, get out of danger in critical game moments.
In NHL 23, Patrice Bergeron bolsters a 93 rating on Faceoffs, making him the only player in the game exceeding the 90 threshold. This should be no surprise, as Bergeron is among the best at the dot.
In NHL 23, the game’s best players have X-Factor abilities. They are designed to enhance the particular abilities of a player in-game. Patrice Bergeron has five Superstar X-Factor abilities, all tailored to mimic his on-ice skillset. They include Unstoppable Force, Yoink, No Contest, Quick Draw, and Quick Pick. Combined, Patrice Bergeron, much like his real-life self, is a reliable player in all defensive situations.
Patrice Bergeron will be missed by the Boston Bruins organization, their fans, and the rest of the league, not just because of who he was as a player but as a leader and a person. The 2021 Mark Messier Leadership Award winner, 2011 Stanley Cup Champion, and a fan-favorite player for those playing as the Bruins in game, Bergeron will leave a lasting impact.
Fortunately, for CHEL gamers, Bergeron will likely have unique cards in Hockey Ultimate Team, a fantasy game mode where users can build and upgrade their teams. In the years ahead, Bergeron will undoubtedly continue to be sought after in the game. After all, who does not want a Patrice Bergeron in their lineup?