Bergeron denies rumors about comeback: It's 'not happening'

Patrice Bergeron says there's no truth to recent rumors about him coming out of retirement for a late-season reunion with the Boston Bruins.

"No, it is not happening," Bergeron said, per The Canadian Press. "I'm not making a comeback, not trying to make a comeback."

Bergeron was recently spotted skating in the Boston area, but the 38-year-old insists the on-ice sessions are for leisure with friends and fellow NHL alumni.

"Come to our skates ... the rumors would go away pretty quickly." Bergeron joked. "It's a slow pace."

Bergeron retired in July after 19 seasons with the Bruins. He built a Hall of Fame career in Boston, notching 1,040 points in 1,294 games to go with a Stanley Cup in 2011 and an NHL-record six Selke Trophies as the league's top defensive forward.

The Bruins were expected to take a step back after Bergeron retired, but the reigning Presidents' Trophy winners currently lead the Eastern Conference with 65 points.

"Very proud," Bergeron said. "I'm not surprised, if I'm being completely honest. I knew they would be more than fine. So much talent and experience and leadership and character in that locker room."