Patrice Bergeron
Possibly the only lock other than Zdeno Chara. He’s been omni-present in the Boston Bruins line-up for almost two decades and has been among the best two-way centers in the game for much of that time.
Not only is he a nine-time Selke Trophy nominated center, but he’s won the award a record four times which in itself deserves recognition; this ties him with Bob Gainey for the most Selke Trophy wins in NHL history.
Far from just focusing on his defensive game though, he’s contributed 869 regular season points over that time as well as 103 play-off points, including the Stanley Cup winning goal back in 2011.
On almost any other team in the league, Patrice Bergeron would likely be captain. He leads with class and gives a tremendous amount back to the Boston Bruins community; he also isn’t afraid to tackle the hard questions when they inevitably come his way.
He has been there for the ultimate high of winning the Stanley Cup Final and has been there for the lows of two Stanley Cup Final losses.
When you look to the list of the Boston Bruins’ all-time leading goalscorers, he’s right there sitting fifth, sandwiched between Bourque and Neely, who of course both already have their numbers in the rafters.
It’s a similar story with all-time regualr season assists and points, right behind Phil Esposito and Bobby Orr respectively. We must also not forget that by the time he retires, he will have had every chance of surpassing these iconic names.
I don’t think anyone would argue with raising his banner. He’s been one of the best for the Boston Bruins over an extended period and it would be just reward for his efforts.