Author Archives: @JamieGatlin1217

Cassidy

Bruce Cassidy Deserving of Jack Adams Consideration

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Over the last two months the Boston Bruins have been on a historic run. They had earned at least a point in nineteen straight games before falling to Pittsburgh Sunday night. The last team to have a streak like that was the Chicago Blackhawks during the 2013-2014 season, when they won the Stanley Cup. During the Bruins impressive stretch many different players have stepped up. Their head coach Bruce Cassidy, however, has again proved why he is one of the best. In a season filled with adversity, he has guided the Bruins to second place in the Eastern Confrence.

While the Bruins entered the season with high expectations, it has been anything but easy. They have missed just about every key player for an extended time due to injuries . They have dealt with sophomore slumps and at times struggled offensively. Through it all, Cassidy has gotten the best out of his players.

For the past three weeks, Cassidy has been without his top goal scorer David Pastrnak, and for the past week Jake DeBrusk. As a result, Cassidy has had to be creative with his lines. Against Ottawa, he placed Chris Wagner on the Bruins top line midway through the game. Wagner rewarded his coach’s trust by scoring the tying goal. This is just one example of Cassidy showing his ability to make in-game adjustments to put this team in the best position to win.

Additionally, he has been patient with his young players as they battled Sophomore slumps. He has received a lot of criticism for his line pairings, but the Bruins offense has improved lately. The secondary scoring that was absent has shown up, as Heinen and DeBrusk have finally resembled the players they were last season. They have rewarded their coaches faith by performing well in top six roles.

Bruins Continue To Excel

Despite the shuffling lineups, the Bruins still have the ninth-best penalty kill, and second best power play unit. They have used 37 different players and improved as the season has progressed. That would cause most teams to fall of a cliff, but not this Bruins team. Cassidy has gotten his team to buy into the Bruins system, and as a result they have excelled.

For all these reasons Cassidy should be in the Jack Adams conversation. The award is given to coach who has contributed the most to his team’s success. Cassidy is more than deserving, as he has rarely had a healthy roster, forcing him to work with a depleted lineup. Regardless of the changing pieces this team continues to win.

Winning the award will not be easy, as Cassidy has steep competition. The other finalists will most likely be Bill Peters, Barry Trotz, and John Cooper. While Cassidy will again be in the conversation, Trotz Is the current favorite due to the Islanders success. Regardless of the results, what Cassidy has done this year has been truly impressive.


Vezina

Rask Proving He Is Vezina Worthy

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Over the past month, the Boston Bruins have been the hottest team in the NHL. They have earned at least a point in 17 straight games, as their last loss in regulation came on January 19th. During this stretch, many different players have stepped up, however none more than Tuukka Rask. After struggling mightily earlier this season, the Bruins number one goaltender has been on fire. He has not only silenced his critics, but made history during the Bruins impressive stretch.

After the Bruins victory over New Jersey last weekend Rask joined elite company. By extending his point streak to seventeen games, Rask became only the second goalie in NHL history to accomplish the feat twice in his career. Like last season Rask has carried this team for over a month as they now are tied for second in the NHL. As Rask has made history, he has also put himself in the Vezina conversation.

Through 36 games Rask is not leading the NHL in any categories. His goals against average rank is tied for tenth best, and his save percentage is tied for eleventh. That is due to how badly Rask began the season. While his numbers as a whole are not Vezina worthy, he has been playing at an elite level since late December.

Over the Bruins last sixteen games, Rask has thirteen wins and three loses, all of which came in overtime. In that span, he has an impressive goals against average of 1.99 and save percentage of .931. Rask also has two shutouts in that stretch, giving him three on the season. As the Bruins have been without their top goal scorer, Rask has shined in net. This streak has silenced his critics after a horrid start that had some questioning if he should still be the number one goalie in Boston.

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Photo Credit: CLNS Media Network

Even though Jaroslav Halak has continued to play well, Rask has reclaimed his job with authority. This has allowed the Bruins to have one of the best goalie tandems in the league. Keeping Rask fresh down the stretch, however, will be key as this team looks to make a deep postseason run.

During Rask’s record run he ranks near the top of every statistical category for goaltenders. When this team needed him at his best he has stepped up. While a second Vezina would be rewarding, the main goal for Rask is a championship. If he can continue his recent level of play, then he could be taking home some hardware at the end of the season.

For more Bruins news follow Jamie Gatlin on Twitter @JamieGatlin1217

Heinen And DeBrusk

Heinen And DeBrusk Stepping Up With Pastrnak Injured

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Throughout this season the Bruins have dealt with a tremendous amount of adversity. Before their West Coast swing they suffered arguably their biggest blow as David Pastrnak was ruled out for at least two weeks. In his absence, the Bruins struggling offense has come alive. They have been lead by Jake DeBrusk and Danton Heinen, who have broken out of sophomore slumps. With the trade deadline looming the Bruins young wingers are playing their best hockey yet.

Before their recent hot stretches, Heinen and DeBrusk had been disappointing this season. As the Bruins struggled offensively, the lack of offense from Heinen and DeBrusk was magnified. With the trade deadline looming, their names had been included in many trade rumors. The two young forwards have responded by reminding people why they are both key to this roster.

Last season Heinen was a pleasant surprise as his forty-seven points were the fifth most on the team. He was key in the clutch and had four game-winning goals. Heinen provided support for his line mates as he dished out thirty-one assists. When the Bruins, needed an offensive boost he was there. Heinen, however, was prone to extended slumps which again had been the case this season until recently.

During January the former fourth-round pick only had three points. His offense was non-existent regardless of what line the Bruins placed him on. In February, Heinen has regained his confidence when the Bruins needed it the most. Over Heinen’s last nine games, he has three goals and five assists. Since being placed on the Bruins top line Heinen, has been a different player.

DeBrusk’s Hot Stretch

The same can be said for Jake DeBrusk who has been dominant since Pastrnak went down with an injury. In 11 games this month the former first-round pick has five goals and six assists. He scored in five straight games, after scoring only three times in January. After an inconsistent start, DeBrusk has been the dynamic playmaker he was expected to be. The success of these two has coincided with the Bruins best stretch of the season.

Heading into Tuesday’s tilt with San Jose the Bruins will be looking to extend their points streak to fourteen games. This is due to the fact that their secondary scoring, which had been absent, has been on full display. This team is getting contributions from everyone with their top goal scorer sidelined. Their current streak has catapulted them to second place in the Eastern Conference.

As the Bruins make their playoff push, secondary scoring will be key. Having DeBrusk and Heinen at their best will be essential. While this team may still need one more scorer to make a deep run, their young wingers have carried this team of late.

Trent Frederic

A memorable Debut For Trent Frederic

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Last night Trent Frederic made his NHL debut, and less than two periods into his NHL career became a fan favorite. There are fewer ways to win over the Bruins fan base than a good- old fashioned hockey fight, and Frederic did just that. The rookie dropped the gloves with Branden Tanev towards the end of the second period. It was a memorable debut for a prospect with high expectations.

The Bruins selected Frederic in the first round of the 2016 NHL draft. Before Frederic’s promotion, he was enjoying a solid season in Providence with ten goals and seven assists. The former Wisconsin Badger is not projected to be an electrifying top- line center. He does, however, bring value to the Bruins with his physical style of play. He is a bruising two-way center that should be able to make a living on the second or third line.

While Frederic’s stay could be brief, he showed why he could become a Garden favorite for years to come. Against Winnipeg, Frederic made it clear that he will not back down from any challenge. This is a quality that Bruins have seemed to lack so far this season. He has also improved offensively after struggling in previous oppurtunites.

With a chance at securing a roster spot on the third line in training camp, Frederic failed to seize to secure a roster spot. As a result, he began the season in Providence in order to refine his game. The improvement was evident, especially over last weekend. Before being called up, Frederic was able to record a two-goal, two-assist weekend. In thirty-seven games for Providence he was a plus four player.

Photo Credit: Jeffrey T. Barnes/ Getty Images

Alongside his childhood hero, David Backes, Frederic showed many positives. In the face-off dot, he went 4-7 and was able to land two shots on net. The former Badger was strong on the puck and landed two hits. While he didn’t light up the stat sheet, Frederic impacted the game in many other ways.

With the trade deadline looming getting a look at Frederic will be key as the Bruins look at their options. He brings a punch to the Bruins third line that they have lacked all season. While he still has a lot to learn, last night was an impressive debut for a Bruins prospect with a bright future.

mid season

State Of The Bruins At Mid Season

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So far this season has been up and down for the Bruins. They have battled a tremendous amount of adversity and most recently lost Tuukka Rask to a concussion. Despite the injuries, they would be in the playoffs if the season ended today. With the first half of the season over, the Bruins are in a good position as they make their playoff push. They still have to improve offensively, but there were many positives to take from the first half.

Due to numerous injuries, the Bruins depth has been tested. As a result, their young players have been forced to replace key pieces such as Charlie McAvoy. One player in particular who has stepped up is Matt Grzyelcyk. The BU product has excelled in multiple roles for the Bruins, and already tied a career-high with 12 assists. In a blueline that has dealt with numerous injuries, he has only missed three games. Grzelcyk, however, is not the only defenseman that has shined.

Mid season
Photo Credit: Maddie Meyer/ Getty Images

Youth And Veterans Stepping Up

Just like last season, the Bruins have relied on their youth. So far this season both Connor Clifton and Jeremy Lauzon have made their NHL debuts. They both played significant minutes during their brief call-ups and surpassed all expectations. The young defenseman showed that they could handle a top-six role in the NHL. With the trade deadline looming they could be interesting trade chips or key pieces to the Bruins future.

While the Bruins young players have excelled, so have the veterans. David Krejci has appeared to have found the fountain of youth. In 49 games he already has 40 points, after recording just 44 last season. He is on pace to surpass forty assists for the first time since 2015-2016. He has carried this team at times when scoring has been scarce. Despite Krejci’s efforts, and the Bruins top lines’ dominance, the Bruins offensive struggles must be addressed in the second half.

This season the Bruins scoring issues can be linked to multiple sophomore slumps. After recording 47 points last season Danton Heinen, has only 13 in the first half. Anders Bjork was supposed to be a key contributor and now is out for the rest of the season. As a result, the Bruins have had to rely on players such as Colby Cave who failed to spark the offense. They do however have many options in the trade market.

Due to their offensive struggles, the Bruins have been popular in the rumor mill. Some players they have been linked to are Wayne Simmonds, Charlie Coyle, and Brayden Schenn. If the Bruins are to make a deep playoff run, improving the offense will be key. They already have a deep defensive core and a rising superstar in David Pastrnak. Their goalie tandem has also been better than many expected.

With one half in the books, the Bruins have reasons to be hopeful in the second half. If they can improve the offense, then this team could be dangerous in the playoffs. They have the depth to make a move, and their scouts have been busy. They will look to start the second half in dominant style next Tuesday against Winnipeg.

Ryan Fitzgerald

The Case For Ryan Fitzgerald

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So far this season the Bruins have struggled to receive consistent secondary scoring . As a result they have dipped into their depth at Providence to jumpstart the offense. That method has been unsuccessful this year, and was more glaring in the loss to Montreal. The Bruins were able to land 43 shots on net but only had two goals. Despite their struggles, they have yet to recall Providences third highest scorer Ryan Fitzgerlad. He is in the midst of a breakout season and could help the Bruins in multiple ways. He has quietly been improving his game and waiting for his opportunity. If Peter Cehlarik struggles, Fitzgerald may finally get his chance.

The Bruins drafted Fitzgerald in the fourth round of the 2014 NHL draft. Since joining the Bruins organization he has gotten better every year. Through 36 games Fitzgerald, has seven goals and 19 assists after finishing last season with 37 points. His offense has improved this season, however that is not the only way he would help this Bruins team.

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Fitzgerald’s Strengths

The Massachusetts native is not the most intimidating presence as he is only 5’9″. Despite Fitzgerald’s small stature he still plays a very physical game. He has great vision on the ice and is very strong defensively. His two-way skill is something that would fit very well on the Bruins roster. It is unlikely Fitzgerald would fit on the second line, however he could be productive on the third line.

With players like Heinen and Bjork who have struggled mighty, Fitzgerald deserves a chance. He is not a flashy prospect, but he has the potential be a solid contributor because of his style of play. Due to his time in Providence, Fitzgerald is one of the more mature prospects in the Bruins system. His improved play shows that he can handle the increased expectations at the NHL level.

Photo Credit: Stanley Cup Of Chowdah

His promotion will have to wait, as Fitzgerld has not appeared in a game since January fifth due to an arm injury . He is however, fresh off his first All Star game experience. The former Boston College product does not bring a lot of hype like fellow prospects Ryan Donato, Anders Bjork, and Zach Senyshyn. But he does play the game right way, and would be an improvement to the Bruins bottom two lines.

Schenn

What Brayden Schenn Would Bring To Boston

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With the trade deadline approaching the Bruins have been linked to many players who could be moved. They are currently on pace for a hundred point season, but have struggled to receive secondary scoring. One name they have been tied to is St. Louis Blues center Brayden Schenn. He has averaged 23 goals and 54 points over the last five seasons. His numbers are down this season on a Blues team that is last in the Western Conference. While Schenn would not come cheap, he would be a welcome addition to this Bruins team.

Scheen would most likely be put on the Bruins second line, which has been searching for consistency all season. David Krejci and Jake DeBrusk have been a formidable duo, however right wing has been a revolving door. So far the rotating cast of fill-ins have been unable to provide consistent scoring. The Blues center would transition well to the Bruins second line, as his 23 points would be the sixth most on the Bruins roster.

Photo Credit: USA Today Images

Additionally, Schenn’s playing style fits perfectly with this team. He plays with an edge, and would bring size and toughness to the Bruins forward group. Schenn has 19 career fights to his name, showing he will stand up for his teammates. His physical presence would be a huge addition to a forward group that is fast and more skill- oriented.

The price, however, would not be cheap as Scheen still has one year left on his deal. The Bruins would most likely have to part with a first-round pick, a prospect, and a contract to make the deal work. David Backes, who played for the Blues before he came to the Bruins, could be a possibility as his cap hit is similar to Scheen’s. The Bruins would also make a good trade partner due to their depth.


The Blues would most likely ask for Heinen, Bjork, or one of the Bruins highly touted prospects in Providence. While both Bjork and Heinen have struggled this season, they still have high upside. It is not definite the Bruins will end up with Scheen, but it is one rumor to watch.

Although Schenn would cost young talent he can help this team in multiple ways. He would not only bring a scoring touch but also add toughness to the Bruins bottom lines. The Bruins will most likely pull the trigger on bringing in at least one forward, and Schenn could be their guy.

David Pastrnak

David Pastrnak Is Finally An All- Star

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On Wednesday the rosters for the NHL All-Star game were announced, and one selection was no surprise. David Pastrnak was selected as the Bruins lone representativeĀ and can finally call himself an All-Star. The 22- year- old is one of the six forwards heading to San Jose for the game on January 26. The announcement was hardly surprising considering Pastrnak has established himself as one of the special young talents over the past two years.

Pastrnak had a career year in 2017-2018. He set career highs in every category, including 35 goals and 45 assists. Through 41 games this season he has been even better, and is on pace to shatter those numbers. Pastrnak has not only been the Bruins best player, but has emerged as one of the best players in the NHL.

Photo Credit: Steve Babineau

In 82 games last season the Bruins forward had 80 points. In 41 games this season, he already has 52 points. Pastrnak’s 25 goals are the fourth most in the league, while his 52 points place him in the top ten. For a Bruins team that has battled injuries, he has been a game-changing talent. Pastrnak has excelled regardless of the situation.

David Pastrnak reaching Historic Heights

While the Bruins right- winger has been exceptional on even strength, Pastrnak has been deadly on the powerplay. Last year he had a career-high twenty-six points on the man advantage including 13 goals. After last nights victory, he is only one point away from passing his career high with 41 games left to play. On the Power Play his creativity has been on full display, and Pastrnak is capitalizing at a dominant rate.

It has lead to Pastrnak’s first All-Star nod after a breakout 2017-2018. He did not only establish himself as a key player on this team, but lead the Bruins in goals and was excellent in the postseason. In his fifth NHL season, however, he has raised his game to historic levels.

Photo Credit: Mark Easson

With a goal against Calgary in last nights victory, Pastrnak is on pace for fifty goals this season. No Bruins player has done that since Cam Neely in 1993-1994. It shows how good he has been in the first half of the season.

With records aside, Pastrnak is one of ten players who will be playing in their first All-Star game. It will be a chance for the Bruins forward to show his talent among the NHL’s best. It should be the first of many All-Star games for the young forward as he is only getting better.

Cassidy

Cassidy Deserving Of Jack Adams Consideration

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Last season Bruce Cassidy was nearly named the best coach in the NHL.Ā  He took over a Bruins team that was dead in the water in early February of 2017, and lead them to a playoff appearance.Ā  He followed that up with a 100 point season and a second-round playoff appearance in his first full season at the helm.Ā  This season, Cassidy’s skills have been tested as this team has yet to form an identity.Ā  The Bruins have struggled to receive secondary scoring, but are still in a wildcard spot.Ā  Cassidy has done well keeping this team competitive in the face of tremendous adversity.

They have already lost Zdeno Chara, Patrice Bergeron, and Charlie McAvoy for long stretches this season. Despite all the injuries, the Bruins are still on their way to a third consecutive playoff appearance.Ā  It has been a season full of ups and downs, but this team has still found ways to win.Ā  Under Cassidy, the Bruins young players have stepped up when needed most.

Cassidy

Photo Credit: John Tlumacki/ Globe Staff

Cassidy’s Impact On The Youth

This season the Bruins have already seen the NHL debuts of Connor Clifton, Jeremy Lauzon, and Jakob Forsbacka Karlsson.Ā  They have all given the Bruins solid minutes over the last month, as injuries pile up. Cassidy has kept things simple and not placed high expectations on his rookies.Ā  He has put them in positions to succeed and rewarded their hard work.Ā  His coaching style has positively affected the Bruins younger players, and their goaltenders as well.

With the addition of Jaroslav Halak, the Bruins have one of the best goalie tandems in the NHL.Ā  Halak has thrived in his first season in Boston, after struggling last season with the Islanders.Ā  He had the worst defensive group in front of him in New York, which has not been the case in Boston.Ā  Cassidy’s system suits Halak, as it keeps everything in front of the goaltender.Ā  What was seen as a low-risk signing has turned into one of this team’s best free-agent pickups.

Cassidy

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Under Cassidy, Tuukka Rask has played his best hockey in recent years.Ā  Last season the Bruins goaltender finished with a .917 save percentage, which was skewed due to a rough first month of the season.Ā  That has been the same case this season, as Rask has recovered from a slow start to be considerably better over the last month.Ā  Cassidy’s system puts his goaltenders in the best positions to succeed, and as a result they have thrived.

Can Cassidy Repeat Last Seasons Success

In what has been a season full of highs and lows, the Bruins have been dominant of late.Ā  In their last two games, they have outscored their opponents 7-1.Ā  That is particularly impressive, considering both Montreal and Anaheim would be in the playoffs if the season ended today.Ā  With Bergeron set to return within the next week, the team will only get better.Ā  Despite all the challenges the team has faced, they are well on their way to another playoff appearance.Ā  There is still a lot of hockey to be played, but Cassidy has again shown why he is one of the best in the league, as he has kept an injury-riddled roster in the playoff mix.

Bruins comeback

Bruins Comeback From 2-0 Defecit To Stun Arizona

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With the injury to Patrice Bergeron, the Bruins have been without one of their deadliest weapons.Ā  Tuesday night that did not matter as the Bruins new top line was magical.Ā  After a sloppy first period, the Bruins found themselves in a 2-0 hole.Ā  Things looked grim as the B’s had yet to come back from a two-goal deficit this season.Ā  With their backs against the wall, this team that has already dealt with tremendous adversity, came roaring back.

The Bruins first goal came courtesy of Danton Heinen.Ā  He buried a beautiful backhanded feed by JFK in front of the net.Ā  Heinen’s goal ignited a Bruins comeback that Arizona could not stop.Ā  The Bruins then took control due to their newly formed first line.Ā  The trio of David Krejci, Brad Marchand, and David Pastrnak accounted for the Bruins next three goals as the Bruins took a 4-2 lead and never looked back.

Bruins comeback

Photo Credit: Bob DeChiara- USA TODAY Sports

Top Line Leads Bruins Comeback

Over the past few games, Bruce Cassidy has placed David Krejci on the first line.Ā  Against Arizona, Krejci was in vintage form as the Bruins top line looked unstoppable.Ā  They single handily took control of the game as Marchand tallied two goals, and Pastrnak got his 21st of the season.Ā  The trio played as if they had been together all season.Ā  At a time where the Bruins need everyone at their best, Krejci, Marchand, and Pastrnak carried the team.

After a crazy second period, both teams remained scoreless in the third period.Ā  The Bruins, while sloppy at times with the puck, did enough to hold off Arizona.Ā  It was not the Bruins prettiest game but they battled adversity and found a way to win.Ā  They also avoided any injuries after a scary sequence in the first period.Ā  David Backes took a skate to the face but returned at the start of the second period and finished the game.

Bruins comeback

Photo Credit: Bob DeChiara- USA TODAY Sports

After four days off the Bruins will return to the ice on Friday night for a tilt against Pittsburgh.Ā  They will look to increase their win streak to four and continue to rise in the standings.

For more Bruins news Follow @JamieGatlin1217 on Twitter