In a heartfelt announcement on Monday 14 August,2023, David Krejci, a cornerstone of the Boston Bruins throughout his entire NHL career, made announcement of his retirement from professional hockey. This news came as the second major retirement for the Bruins this summer, following Patrice Bergeron’s retirement announcement just last month.
After 15 full NHL seasons I have decided to retire from the best league in the world. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Cam Neely and Don Sweeney for allowing me to take my time with my decision and announcement. I also want to thank the Jacobs family and the entire Bruins organization for believing in me over and over again and giving me the opportunity to be part of this amazing family for so many years. When I was drafted in 2004, I had no idea that I would be working with such incredible and driven people who would lead us to 3 Stanley Cup Finals, and winning the ultimate goal in 2011. I have made so many great friendships throughout the organization. You have always been there for me whenever I needed something and I will always be here for you. To my teammates - I have been very lucky to be on so many good teams and play with so many great players. You always start as coworkers but end as friends, and I'm so proud to have met some of my closest friends over the years. That's the best part about our sport. Thank you to all the coaching staffs I was lucky to have in my career - I was coached by some of the best coaches in the world. Thank you to my agents for all you have done for me since my teenage years. To my mom and dad - Thank you for letting me chase my dream of playing in the NHL. Being a father, I now realize how hard it had to be to send your kid to another continent with no English. Without your support, my NHL dream would still be a dream and not reality. To my brother Zdenek - We dreamt the same thing as kids but only one of us was fortunate to experience it. You never complained and you were never jealous of me - you were the exact opposite of that. I don't think you understand how much influence you have had on my career, and for that I thank you from the bottom of my heart. To my wife Naomi and my kids Elina and Everett - As I'm writing this and hearing you and the kids playing and being really loud it makes me happy that I get to experience it in real life and not over the phone when we are on trips far away. You understood all the hard work I had to put in and all the hours in the summer to get ready for a new season. You always listened when I was in my lows and gave me strength and the right advice. Now it's time for me to try to be the best husband and father I can be and support you in our next chapter in life. I want to thank the media - I really appreciate all of you even if I don't like speaking too much … I will miss you. And to Bruins fans and the city of Boston - THANK YOU. You have always treated me with nothing but respect and I will be forever grateful. I will miss playing in front of you, but I am and always will be a Bruin. DK46
At the age of 37, Krejci wrapped up his final chapter with the Bruins, having come back for one last season on a one-year contract after spending the previous year playing for HC Olomouc in his homeland of Czechia.
Taking a reflective tone, Krejci remarked, “Back in 2004, when I was drafted, little did I know about the incredible journey I was embarking upon, alongside dedicated individuals who helped us reach three Stanley Cup Finals, culminating in our ultimate victory in 2011.”
His gratitude extended to the friendships nurtured within the organization, as he noted, “The camaraderie I’ve built over the years has been truly remarkable. Whenever I needed support, the team was there, and I want them to know I’m here in the same unwavering way.”
Throughout the most recent season, Krejci showcased his enduring skill with 16 goals and 40 assists, accumulating an impressive 56 points over 70 games. This marked his highest point total since the 2015-16 season. Despite the Bruins earning an NHL record for the most points in the regular season, they faced a surprising defeat in a seven-game series against the Florida Panthers during the initial round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
Krejci’s illustrious journey with the Bruins covered an impressive 1,032 games, where he netted 231 goals and generously provided 555 assists, accumulating a grand total of 786 points. The Bruins first welcomed Krejci to their team when they selected him in the second round (63rd overall) of the 2004 NHL Draft. Before going pro with the Bruins, he spent two seasons refining his skills with the QMJHL’s Gatineau Olympiques.
Krejci made an indelible mark on the Bruins’ history, especially during their 2011 Stanley Cup victory, where he showcased his prowess with 23 points in 25 playoff games, contributing significantly to the team’s triumphant journey.”