BRIGHTON, Mass. — During a 1-on-1 possession drill at last month’s Boston Bruins development camp, Brett Harrison and Matthew Poitras were the stars of the show. Quite literally.
The two faced off directly on the Spoked-B logo at center ice, while other pairs practiced around them at Warrior Ice Arena. Poitras made waves last year during training camp and secured a spot on the roster, and now Harrison aims to achieve the same goal this season.
“‘Potsy’ really set a high bar last year,” remarked Harrison, who was picked by Boston in the third round (No. 85) of the 2021 NHL Draft. “He made it difficult for them to send him back to juniors; that’s my objective as well.”
If he doesn’t secure a position on the Bruins’ opening-night roster, the 21-year-old will head back to Providence in the American Hockey League (AHL), where he tallied 14 points (five goals, nine assists) over 47 games last season.
Harrison and Poitras have shared a friendship since their days in the Ontario Hockey League.
Having played two-and-a-half seasons with Oshawa—just a short distance from where Poitras grew up in Ajax, Ontario—they formed their bond after both teams were eliminated in the Eastern Quarterfinals of the OHL playoffs in 2022. They then trained together for a month in Providence, strengthening their connection.
Poitras praised Harrison’s remarkable shot ability and drew from his own experiences last year when advising him: play with confidence and stay true to his style of play.
“I approached it all one day at a time,” said Poitras. “I didn’t hold many expectations but aimed to bring my best every day—being prepared and doing everything right … I’d definitely tell him that.”
Poitras enjoyed success as an NHL rookie with 15 points (five goals, ten assists) over just 33 games before suffering a season-ending shoulder injury on February 7. Meanwhile, Harrison was busy making his mark in AHL hockey; he recorded one goal and two assists during Providence’s commanding 6-0 win against Hartford on May 3—a significant milestone as his first professional playoff game.
The Bruins are optimistic about Harrison’s offensive capabilities moving forward.
“This year he’s really honing in on areas he knows need improvement,” noted player development coordinator Adam McQuaid. “He’s positioned well right now; I believe he’s looking to enhance his offensive involvement this season with Providence—and perhaps earn some playing time up top [in Boston].”
Harrison is concentrating on increasing muscle mass while enhancing his skating skills. Regardless of whether he makes it onto an NHL roster come October or not, he intends to prepare himself for future opportunities sooner rather than later.
“I feel much more comfortable and confident now,” he shared. “I’m aiming to showcase that confidence on ice so they can see how effectively my game translates—and how much stronger I’ll be this year.”
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Rising Stars: Brett Harrison and Matthew Poitras Shine at Bruins Development Camp
Overview of Bruins Development Camp
The Boston Bruins Development Camp is a pivotal event in the NHL offseason, designed to showcase the potential of young talent within the organization. Each summer, the Bruins invite prospects to participate in various training sessions, scrimmages, and skill drills. This year, two names stood out among the plethora of aspiring hockey stars: Brett Harrison and Matthew Poitras. Their impressive performances have fans and analysts buzzing about their potential future contributions to the team.
Brett Harrison: A Promising Forward
Brett Harrison, a forward selected by the Bruins in the 2021 NHL Draft, demonstrated exceptional skill and determination throughout the camp. His ability to adapt to different situations and his willingness to work hard made him a standout candidate for the upcoming season.
Key Attributes of Brett Harrison
- Skating Ability: Harrison’s speed and agility were evident, allowing him to maneuver around opponents effectively.
- Offensive Skills: His sharp shooting and playmaking abilities were on full display during the scrimmages.
- Physical Play: Harrison’s willingness to engage physically showcases his determination to excel at the professional level.
Performance Highlights
During the scrimmages, Harrison consistently found himself in goal-scoring positions, creating opportunities for both himself and his teammates. His ability to read the game and make quick decisions stood out, leading to several assists throughout the camp.
Matthew Poitras: The Emerging Center
Matthew Poitras, drafted in 2022, has quickly become a fan favorite due to his impressive hockey IQ and impressive skill set. He plays a pivotal role in the center position and has shown the potential to be a crucial player for the Bruins in the future.
Strengths of Matthew Poitras
- Vision and Passing: Poitras boasts an exceptional ability to read the ice, making him a valuable playmaker.
- Two-Way Game: His commitment to both offensive and defensive responsibilities showcases his well-rounded game.
- Leadership Qualities: Poitras displays confidence and maturity, which bodes well for his future role within the team.
Impactful Moments at Development Camp
Poitras excelled in one-on-one situations, often creating scoring chances with his precise passing and quick thinking. His performance left a lasting impression on the coaching staff and fans, further solidifying his reputation as a rising star in the Bruins organization.
Comparative Analysis: Harrison vs. Poitras
| Attribute | Brett Harrison | Matthew Poitras |
|---|---|---|
| Position | Forward | Center |
| Draft Year | 2021 | 2022 |
| Primary Strength | Offensive Skill | Playmaking Ability |
| Playing Style | Physical and Aggressive | Visionary and Tactical |
| Future Potential | Scoring Star | Top Playmaker |
Benefits of Attending Bruins Development Camp
For young players like Brett Harrison and Matthew Poitras, attending the Bruins Development Camp offers numerous advantages:
- Skill Development: Players receive direct coaching from NHL professionals, enhancing their skills and understanding of the game.
- Networking Opportunities: Building relationships with coaches and other players can foster future collaborations and growth.
- Experience at the Next Level: Participating in drills and scrimmages provides valuable experience in a competitive environment.
- Visibility: Excelling at development camp can catch the attention of scouts and the coaching staff, paving the way for future opportunities.
First-Hand Experiences from the Camp
Several players and coaches shared their thoughts on the standout performances during the Bruins Development Camp. Here are some notable quotes:
Coach’s Insight: “Brett and Matthew have shown incredible potential. Their work ethic and skill sets are going to make a significant impact on our roster.”
Player Reflections: “It’s been an amazing experience to train alongside players like Brett and Matthew. Their passion for the game is contagious.”
Future Outlook for Harrison and Poitras
As the Bruins prepare for the upcoming NHL season, the performances of Brett Harrison and Matthew Poitras at development camp have raised expectations among fans and analysts alike. Both players possess unique skill sets that could complement the existing roster and contribute to the team’s success.
Anticipated Contributions
- Offensive Threat: Expect Harrison to become a scoring threat, enhancing the Bruins’ offensive depth.
- Playmaking Center: Poitras is projected to enhance the team’s playmaking capabilities, facilitating the offensive flow.
Conclusion: A Bright Future Ahead
With the impressive showings at the Bruins Development Camp, Brett Harrison and Matthew Poitras have positioned themselves as promising prospects in the Boston Bruins organization. As they continue to develop their skills and adapt to the demands of professional hockey, fans can look forward to seeing their contributions in the NHL. The future is undoubtedly bright for these rising stars.
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