Boston Bruins Centennial Season Preview
The Boston Bruins are ready to run it back for their 100th season in the NHL.
Last season was, to quote Boston Bruins play-by-play commentator Jack Edwards (he/him), in the aftermath of losing Game 7 of the first round of the playoffs, “a Hindenburg-style disaster.” In what proved to be the last season in the storied careers of franchise stalwarts Patrice Bergeron (he/him) and David Krejci (he/him), the team set NHL records for wins (65) and points (135) in a season, only to have their aspirations fall apart in the playoffs.
However, this season is one of flux. With Bergeron retired, the Bruins had a vacuum at captaincy to fill. While the young leadership of defenseman Charlie McAvoy (he/him) had intrigued some, the longevity and the work ethic of Brad Marchand (he/him) eventually won over the role as the 27th captain in franchise history.
Additionally, the trade deadline rentals of last season have all left to other teams. While the Bruins signed some veteran leadership to fill out the bottom end, including the nostalgic re-signing of Milan Lucic (he/him), this roster will be shaped by prospects.
During various prospect events in the offseason, such as July’s development camp, early September’s prospect challenge, and the current preseason, the youth development has finally started to bear fruit. One of the biggest surprises has been 2022 second round draft pick Matt Poitras (he/him). While undersized for the roster, at 5’11, his playmaking prowess at center has shocked many and has drawn speculation of him making the opening night roster. Other prospects to look out for are forwards Georgii Merkulov (he/him), Fabian Lysell (he/him) and Johnny Beecher (he/him), defenseman Mason Lohrei (he/him), and goalie Brandon Bussi (he/him).
The Boston Bruins begin their season on October 11th with an Original Six matchup at home against the Chicago Blackhawks.
