I agree. Just don't be shocked if he isn't the same player by the time the play-offs roll around. SInce O'Reilly shut him down and dominated the Bruins he is 10-15-25 in 34 games. Last 2 seasons in the play-offs he has had 68% OZ starts as well. All time great, love him, come back as long as you want, but I'm not counting on him to be the Bergeron we all love to remember.
As far as fans "wanting him" to leave, two series wins in four years and their argument of trying to find other longer term top two center solutions is certainly valid whehter we agree or not.
Bergeron would be an ideal 3rd line C for the playoffs
The issue is .. he is still a wizard in the regular season. Even at 50 percent physical capacity... his experience and IQ alone could dance around good regular season talents.
Imo Bergeron wants to be the #1 C also. It could be a pride thing. He wants to be on 1st pair PP. Take all the important draws....especially late in games
How can a pedestrian coach(Monty) in comparison ... rein it in and tell him "No"?
Monty even apologized profusely... that he should have not separated Bergy/Marchand in game 5.... when this could have been the correct call.
Bergeron is a living Bruins legend. But if a lesser role is unappetizing for him...
The last thing I want to see .... if Bergy and Bruins potentially fail another 1st round. Hate thrown his way.