Sweeney: Krejci Won’t Return To Boston Bruins This Season

BRIGHTON, Mass – Those hoping that Boston Bruins center David Krejci was going to magically reappear for the B’s just ahead of the playoffs this season, those dreams have been dashed. The 35-year-old playmaking center will be sticking with his family in the Czech Republic this spring rather than returning to North America after Krejci played for his hometown HC Olomouc team in the Czech leagues this season.

David Krejci’s season was over earlier this week after posting 20 goals and 46 points in 51 games for the Czech League this season, and then a five-game playoff run ended with three goals and five points in five games. There was some speculation that Krejci might come back to North America to hop on with a team ahead of the Stanley Cup playoffs, but that was always a far-fetched notion given that Krejci would have to get through waivers after playing in Europe past the middle of December this season.

Boston Bruins GM Don Sweeney confirmed that Krejci has no plans to play in the NHL this season, be it for the Bruins or anybody else.

“He’s decided to stay with his family in the Czech Republic,” said Sweeney, when asked if Krejci was an option this season.

Interestingly enough, there are now reports that the Boston Bruins are the only team that Krejci would consider playing for next season if the Bruins are still looking for a second line center after Erik Haula (8 goals, 25 points in 59 games) played the most time there this season.

Told if David Krejci does return to #NHL (next season) he will likely only consider playing for Boston. #NHLBruins

— Andy Strickland (@andystrickland) March 20, 2022

In the meantime, it will be telling to see what the Boston Bruins do ahead of the NHL trade deadline when it comes to Jake DeBrusk and meeting his trade demands, and potentially replacing him in the Black and Gold lineup if the top-6 winger is dealt elsewhere across the league.