Two radio hosts made controversial remarks about Patrice Bergeron, and it's clearly not going down well with everyone

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David St-Jean
July 26, 2023 (11:22)

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A new chapter was written in the history of the Boston Bruins yesterday when captain Patrice Bergeron finally announced that he would not return next season, officially retiring from professional hockey.

After an absolutely remarkable 19-season career in the NHL, numerous touching tributes poured in for the Quebec native to acknowledge his remarkable journey in the league. However, two radio hosts from Boston, Michael Felger and Tony Massarotti, decided to belittle the accomplishments of the forward, drawing the ire of many fans.

During their show "Felger & Massarotti," the two men mentioned that Patrice Bergeron was highly overrated in the hockey world, adding that he wasn't the best defensive forward to have played in the NHL and that he cost the Boston Bruins two Stanley Cups.

It's truly disheartening and entirely incomprehensible to see such remarks directed towards a player of Patrice Bergeron's caliber.

"You would think that the top defensive center in the history of the sport who also had a career pace of 66 points would not have to face any shit-talking upon retirement but thank god we have radio hosts for that."

JFresh, condemning the comments of Felger & Mazz

The centerman from L'Ancienne-Lorette had an incredible career in the NHL, winning the Stanley Cup in 2011. Throughout his career, he also captured the Selke Trophy six times, making him the most decorated player in league history. Add to that his 427 goals and 613 assists (1040 points) in 1294 games, and you undoubtedly have the resume of one of the greatest players to have skated in the National Hockey League.

Clearly, we completely disagree with the remarks made by Felger and Massarotti, and we find it to be the worst timing to undermine his NHL career, especially on the day he announced his retirement.

Personally, Patrice Bergeron unquestionably belongs among the NHL elite, as he completely redefined the concept of a two-way forward. The Quebec native excelled defensively, consistently countering the best opponent trios night after night, all while providing impressive offensive contributions throughout his career.

While everyone is entitled to their opinion, such a statement made on a day when the forward was experiencing very emotional moments is highly inappropriate in our view.

We wholeheartedly support Patrice Bergeron's decision, and we sincerely hope he takes this time to spend with his family. We also want to congratulate him on his wonderful NHL career, as he was a true leader for his team, always giving his all every time he stepped on the ice.

Source: Habs&LNH