Predicting Which Bruins Free Agents Return or Leave

Mar 3, 2021; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Bruins center David Krejci (46) during the second period against the Washington Capitals at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 3, 2021; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Bruins center David Krejci (46) during the second period against the Washington Capitals at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports
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May 4, 2021; Newark, New Jersey, USA; Boston Bruins center Davd Krejci (46) during warm-ups before the game against the New Jersey Devils at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
May 4, 2021; Newark, New Jersey, USA; Boston Bruins center Davd Krejci (46) during warm-ups before the game against the New Jersey Devils at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

David Krejci

One of the few remaining members of the Bruins’ 2011 Stanley Cup championship team, Krejci has been a staple as the second-line center for the Black and Gold. The 35-year-old said that he would like to return to Boston, but there are some factors that would go into his decision.

One thing is for sure, it doesn’t sound like whether he returns to the Bruins or not, that his career is over. He has expressed a desire to play in his home country of the Czech Republic.

As far as Boston goes, if the Bruins can make the numbers work and Krejci agrees to take somewhat of a pay cut, then something can get done.

When the Bruins acquired Taylor Hall from the Buffalo Sabres on April 11, slotting him beside Krejci and Craig Smith brought a different looking Krejci in terms of his play. He looked like someone who had found a strong step in his play and it gave the Bruins a solid second-line behind their top-line.

A key member of the Boston power play, losing Krejci would be a tough blow up the middle for the Bruins as they are not blessed with depth behind Krejci and Patrice Bergeron.

Prediction: Krejci re-signs.