"Obviously, I hope we get a deal done. I've got a chance to become the player I am and the person I am in this city. This club has been a big part of that. I love it here and it's an honor to wear this jersey," Pastrnak told reporters Friday.
The Czech forward was the Bruins' top goalscorer last season with 40 goals and their second-most productive player behind Brad Marchand (80) with 77 points. Marchand will miss Boston's season opener after hip surgery, as will defenseman Charlie McAvoy. The Bruins will open the season on October 12 against Washington.
"Obviously these are key players on our team. But we have other leaders, so I'm sure we'll be ready from the first game. It will be a challenge, but the sooner you go through such challenges, the better for the team and for our growth together," Pastrnak said.
In the new season, Pastrnak will be able to renew his partnership with center David Krejci, who returned to Boston after a year in Olomouc. The two already played together at the World Championships in May, where they helped the Czech national team win bronze.
"I have to admit that it was the highlight of my last season. I really enjoyed the World Championships again. And of course David and I are good friends and I am very happy that he is back," Pastrnak said.
The five-time Czech player of the year has played his entire NHL career for Boston, amassing 504 points (240+264) in 510 games and adding 74 points (30+44) in the playoffs. In 2020, he won the Maurice Richard Trophy for the league's top goalscorer.
