The Boston Bruins successfully integrated several rookies into their NHL lineup last season, including centers Matt Poitras and Johnny Beecher, as well as defenseman Mason Lohrei.
Could the Bruins replicate this success by bringing one or more prospects onto the roster for the 2024-25 season?
While the Bruins’ prospect pool isn’t regarded as elite, with most analysts ranking it near the bottom of the league, this does not imply a lack of NHL-caliber talent within the system.
The Bruins’ rookie camp is set to commence Wednesday, presenting a significant opportunity for several prospects to demonstrate their skills and argue for an early spot in Boston’s lineup.
Which prospects might vie for a spot during training camp and the preseason? Let’s explore four potential candidates.
Fabian Lysell
Position: Right wing
2023-24 Team: Providence Bruins (AHL)
2023-24 Stats: 15G, 35A in 56 GP
Now is the moment for Lysell to prove he can elevate his game to the next level, not just by securing an NHL roster spot but by contributing significantly on offense.
As the most skilled offensive player in Boston’s prospect pool, Lysell, the 2021 first-round pick, possesses an exceptional shot, incredible speed, and impressive playmaking abilities. He is the kind of player who can keep defensemen on their toes as he streaks through the neutral zone toward the opponent’s net. His skill set could be beneficial for the power play, especially with the recent departures of Jake DeBrusk and James van Riemsdyk, potentially opening up spots on the second power-play unit.
Lysell has faced some injuries in his AHL tenure, but when healthy, he can be a dynamic offensive force—something the Bruins significantly need. Additionally, his natural position is right wing, a position where Boston has shown weaknesses.
The Bruins would ideally like to see Lysell excel in camp and the preseason, validating his place as the second-line right wing at the season’s start. However, he must earn that opportunity; being a first-round pick alone won’t guarantee him the role.
We are all aware of Lysell’s offensive capabilities. The pressing question is whether he can fulfill the defensive responsibilities expected of NHL players. The Bruins emphasize a disciplined, two-way style of play, and Lysell must demonstrate progress defensively during camp and preseason. Nevertheless, it’s important to allow him some flexibility; mistakes are expected as he is still only 21 years old.
Having completed 110 games over two seasons in Providence, it is time for the Bruins to give this young talent a chance to prove himself at a higher level.
Georgii Merkulov
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Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 30, 2023; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Bruins center Georgii Merkulov (42) skates in his first NHL game during the third period against the New Jersey Devils at TD Garden.
Position: Center
2023-24 Team: Providence Bruins (AHL)
2023-24 Stats: 30G, 35A in 67 GP
Merkulov has demonstrated strong offensive capabilities at the AHL level. He was the leading scorer for the P-Bruins in both of the past two seasons, achieving 55 points (24 goals, 31 assists) in 202“`html
to assess if he can be an effective player in the NHL.
Riley Duran
Position: Center/right wing
2023-24 Team: Providence College (NCAA)
2023-24 Stats: 9G, 7A in 35 GP
There is always the possibility that a prospect could surprise and compel the Bruins’ front office and coaching staff into making challenging choices. Last year, Matt Poitras excelled to the point where returning him to the OHL seemed illogical. He rewarded the Bruins’ trust by having a strong rookie season, which unfortunately was cut short due to injury.
Could Duran experience a similar rise in the upcoming month? The former standout from Providence College plays with impressive speed and possesses a solid two-way skill set. His offensive talents are somewhat underrated, as demonstrated by a goal he scored with the P-Bruins back in April.
What’s more impressive than his first professional goal is his smooth toe-drag and forehand-backhand assist on the inside. Duran, wearing No. 11 in black, cuts inside and makes a break close to the net before Steen scores on the rebound. Three-point night. #NHLBruins pic.twitter.com/oOZD618nv1
— Bruins Network (@BruinsNetwork) April 13, 2024
While Duran may be best suited to start the season in Providence, it would not be unexpected if he emerges as one of the top rookies during camp.
Brandon Bussi
Position: Goaltender
2023-24 Team: Providence Bruins (AHL)
2023-24 Stats: 23-10-5, .913 SV%, 2.67 GAA
Currently, Jeremy Swayman is the clear No. 1 goalie in Boston, assuming he signs a new contract. The key question is which goaltender will serve as his backup?
The Bruins brought in Joonas Korpisalo as part of the Linus Ullmark trade with the Ottawa Senators in July. Korpisalo is coming off a disappointing 2023-24 season, where he recorded a 21-26-4 record, a .890 save percentage, and a 3.27 GAA. If anyone can revitalize Korpisalo’s game, it’s the renowned Bruins goalie coach Bob Essensa; however, what if the Finnish goalie struggles in camp or during the preseason?
Brandon Bussi now has the opportunity to demonstrate his capabilities in the upcoming weeks. Over the past two seasons in Providence, he has performed admirably, achieving a .917 save percentage as the starting goaltender. While there’s no hurry to elevate Bussi to the NHL, he is a promising young player who could make a compelling case for a spot on the Opening Night roster with a strong performance in camp and preseason.
Don Sweeney discusses the trade that sent Linus Ullmark to Ottawa and the acquisition of Joonas Korpisalo and Mark Kastelic.
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Assessing Bruins Prospects: Who Could Break Into the NHL Roster for the 2024-25 Season?
Key Bruins Prospects to Watch
The Boston Bruins have a robust prospect pool that could potentially make a significant impact in the NHL for the 2024-25 season. Here, we break down the most promising players who are poised to break into the roster, showcasing their strengths and defining characteristics.
1. John Beecher
Position: Center
Age: 21
Current Team: Providence Bruins (AHL)
- Strengths: Beecher is known for his speed and two-way play, making him a versatile option for the Bruins’ center depth. His ability to win face-offs and play defensively is highly valued in the NHL.
- 2023-24 Stats: 15 goals, 25 assists in AHL
- Outlook: With the potential to fill a role as a third or fourth-line center, Beecher’s development in the AHL positions him as a strong candidate for the upcoming season.
2. Mason Lohrei
Position: Defenseman
Age: 22
Current Team: Providence Bruins (AHL)
- Strengths: Lohrei possesses exceptional skating ability and a high hockey IQ. His offensive upside as a defenseman can add significant value to the Bruins’ blue line.
- 2023-24 Stats: 5 goals, 30 assists in AHL
- Outlook: With Boston’s need for young defensemen, Lohrei could see time in the NHL if he continues to develop his game.
3. Fabian Lysell
Position: Right Wing
Age: 21
Current Team: Providence Bruins (AHL)
- Strengths: Lysell is known for his dynamic skating and playmaking abilities. His vision on the ice allows him to create scoring opportunities.
- 2023-24 Stats: 12 goals, 28 assists in AHL
- Outlook: As a highly skilled forward, Lysell could be a game-changer for the Bruins if he can adjust to the pace of the NHL.
Potential Impact Players
The following players have the potential to make an impact on the Bruins roster based on their recent performances and skill sets.
4. Jeremy Swayman
Position: Goaltender
Age: 25
Current Team: Boston Bruins (NHL)
- Strengths: Swayman has proven himself as a reliable goaltender with quick reflexes and excellent positioning.
- 2023-24 Stats: 2.30 GAA, .918 SV%
- Outlook: If he continues on this trajectory, Swayman could solidify his place as a starter or a strong backup.
5. Jakub Lauko
Position: Left Wing
Age: 23
Current Team: Providence Bruins (AHL)
- Strengths: Lauko brings a physical style of play combined with decent scoring ability, making him a candidate for a bottom-six role.
- 2023-24 Stats: 10 goals, 15 assists in AHL
- Outlook: His tenacity and willingness to play the body make him a strong fit for the Bruins’ style of hockey.
Table of Top Bruins Prospects
| Player | Position | Age | Current Team | 2023-24 Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| John Beecher | Center | 21 | Providence Bruins | 15 G, 25 A |
| Mason Lohrei | Defenseman | 22 | Providence Bruins | 5 G, 30 A |
| Fabian Lysell | Right Wing | 21 | Providence Bruins | 12 G, 28 A |
| Jeremy Swayman | Goaltender | 25 | Boston Bruins | 2.30 GAA, .918 SV% |
| Jakub Lauko | Left Wing | 23 | Providence Bruins | 10 G, 15 A |
Benefits of Developing Young Talent
- Cost-Effectiveness: Relying on homegrown talent can save cap space, allowing the team to invest in other areas.
- Team Chemistry: Young players often bring fresh energy and enthusiasm, which can positively affect team dynamics.
- Long-Term Success: Building a strong prospect pool ensures a sustainable competitive edge over the years.
Practical Tips for Bruins Management
- Monitor Progress: Regularly assess players’ performances in the AHL to identify when they are ready for the NHL.
- Focus on Development: Invest in development programs that cater to the specific needs of each prospect.
- Encourage Competition: Create an environment where young players feel challenged to earn their spots on the roster.
Conclusion
Assessing the Bruins’ prospect pool reveals several players with the potential to make the jump to the NHL for the 2024-25 season. By closely monitoring their development and integrating them into the roster effectively, the Bruins can ensure they remain competitive in the league.
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