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NHL Concussions Part 2: Close To Home

CONCUSSIONS?

In a deposition given in 2015, Boston Bruins owner Jeremy Jacobs denied knowing or ever hearing about CTE. Jacobs was asked if he knew that CTE was diagnosed posthumously in brains of former hockey players. His answer: “I don’t think so, I don’t know.” CTE was discovered in former players Rick Martin, Reggie Fleming, Bob Probert and Steven Montador at the time of his deposition.

Years prior to the Jacobs interview, the NFL settled a $765 million concussion lawsuit, with CTE being thrust into the limelight. In testimonies obtained by TSN.ca owners, like Jacobs, claim ignorance about CTE, yet are against stopping head hits which can lead to concussions. The NHL has spent over $50 million in legal fees, therefore, it would be unlikely that the owners weren’t at least briefed on what CTE is.

MISSING INFORMATION

In 2010 the NFL created a poster warning of the repercussions of repeated head trauma and concussions. The warning also states that injuries to the brain can lead to the early onset of dementia. The NHL’s poster does not include the word “dementia.” A medical consultant for the NHL, Dr. John Rizos, had to “water down” the poster. He testified that his original wording caused some problems within the league. So who exactly had issues? None other than NHL lawyer (and ironically a member of the NHL/NHLPA Concussion Working Group) Julie Grand. In an email to Dr. Rizos, Grand was concerned that any statement including the word “dementia” may sound “too alarmist.” The Leagues Doctors Ruben Echemendia and Willem Meeuwisse were in agreement with Grand.

WHY?

According to Meeuwisse, the word “dementia” was dropped to make the poster easier to comprehend. His reasoning on the change? A language barrier. As Dr. Meeuwisse stated:

A part of the problem that we face in the NHL that the NFL does not face is a language issue, where half of our players speak a language other than English.”

Dr. Conidi, a former team neurologist for the Florida Panthers, believes that the notion of language being a barrier is an insult to the players:

“The editing of the poster is insulting. The thing that comes to my mind is: That’s the best you can think of? I think I would have said, ‘I don’t know’ before I said, ‘My players don’t speak English.’ These players get to and from NHL rinks okay and read English street signs and live in North America. There are a number of very intelligent hockey players and I think many would be offended that these guys are basically saying the players aren’t smart enough to read the poster.”

EMAILS

Grand wrote an email to Commissioner Bettman in regards to the direction that the Concussion Working Group should take. She mentioned that the league should conduct a study “on the long-term neurocognitive and psychological effects of repeated concussions among retired NHL players.” A nice thought, however, she didn’t think it would be worth doing. Grand continued:

“I’d rather focus on the here and now and leave the dementia issues up to the NFL.””I think it is important that we continue to move in more than one direction with the work of the (Concussion Working Group) and appear to both the players/clubs and the public that we are actively engaged in the issue”

Grand concluded the email asking Bettman for his thoughts. His reaction? “Good job. Thanks. You should give it to PR-good job.”

DIRTY HIT ON SAVVY

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kaG4GSyQ-tQ&w=560&h=315]

Fans of the Boston Bruins know about the Matt Cooke hit. They also know Marc Savard’s journey and speaking about his life after suffering that career ending hit. In a poignant piece written for the Players Tribune Savard wrote about the “dark times” he has faced and calls for more mental health resources for players.

An email between Mike Milbury (former Bruins player turned television analyst) and Colin Campbell (NHL Senior Executive Vice-President of Hockey Operations) Milbury asked Campbell what the league will do to Cooke. Campbell’s reply: “Let’s face it Mike…we sell rivalries, we sell and promote hate.”

AFTERMATH

Cooke never received discipline for the Savard hit and he also has never apologized. Then Bruins GM Chiarelli said:

“The last few days I’ve been lobbying the Hockey Ops staff with respect to the Cooke hit on Savard. The issue here is that they felt there was no infraction. He didn’t leave his feet, he didn’t charge, he didn’t use an elbow. They ruled it was a shoulder hit to the head.”

Campbell came out with a neatly written statement at the time:

“I know it’s not something that Boston fans, or hockey fans would like to hear. They want justice. We feel we have to be consistent and do what we feel is right and hopefully we’ve gone to a place in our meetings today that we can eradicate plays like this in the future.”

CONCLUSION

Facing huge backlash and class action lawsuits, the NFL agreed to pay out $1 billion dollars to retired players. The NHL has done the opposite. Former litigator turned Commissioner Gary Bettman has fought to have cases dismissed. He also continues to question the evidence linking brain trauma and hits to the head. With the case now denied as a class action suit, players may have to sue individually.

Bettman and company will continue to fight hardball without any embarrassment or shame, no matter how harmful it is. The NFL has dealt with much negative press involving concussions, however, the NHL has yet to experience such blowback. Attendance is growing steadily, television ratings have not suffered. Will the league ever take responsibility and warn its players about the dangers of concussions?

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEEVY7LWFgg&w=560&h=315]

Follow Liz Rizzo on Twitter @pastagrl88

RED ICE- Concussions in the NHL (@pastagrl88)

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“I think the NHL has misread its hand. This is not going away. This is much bigger than they hoped. I don’t want money at all. I just want research and funding and for them to have neurologists for teams”-former Bruin player Nick Boynton in an exclusive interview with TSN.

On July 13th, Judge Susan Nelson denied the request of 150+ players in bringing a class action lawsuit against the NHL. Players have also asked the league to provide medical care in detecting symptoms consisting with Alzheimers, depression, dementia etc. Judge Nelson stated that there’s needs to be “substantial proof” that playing hockey increases the likelihood of being diagnosed with a neurodegenerative disease. If you want proof, ask those players whose lives have changed drastically after suffering multiple concussions.

Hockey has always had this warrior-like atmosphere where players are expected to skate through injuries; after all, when you suffer from multiple concussions, you’re “damaged goods”. You play on, but at what cost? And why is the NHL so hesitant in investing money into research to gain a better understanding of this debilitating disease? In a multi-part series, we take an in-depth look at CTE in the NHL.

PUNCH DRUNK

PHOTO CREDITS: (MGN)

Aggressiveness. Depression. Impulsive behavior. Confusion. Dementia. These are just a few symptoms of CTE or Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy. It was first diagnosed in 1928 by Dr. Harrison Martland after he described boxers with having “punch drunk syndrome.” In 2005, the first published case of CTE was on former Pittsburgh Steeler Mike Webster. Generally, symptoms don’t appear until the late 20s or 30s. Cognitive symptoms appear in your 40s and 50s. According to the Concussion Legacy Foundation in Boston people who suffer from CTE have sustained hundreds or more trauma to head, whether through sports or military service.

Football tops the list with 200+ confirmed cases of those suffering from CTE. Hockey has 20+ confirmed cases so far. But it’s important to note that not every athlete that has suffered a concussion will end up with CTE. But the longer you’re exposed to head trauma, the likelihood of experiencing symptoms are that much higher. Treating CTE can be difficult as it’s a disease diagnosed after death. However, if an athlete feels they may have CTE, there are types of therapies available. Unfortunately, for many help came too late.

CHEAP HITS AND TRAGEDY

NHL enforcers Derek Boogaard, left, Rick Rypien and Wade Belak

PHOTO CREDITS: (GETTY IMAGES)

“Red ice sells hockey”

Fighting draws in the crowd, and when the NHL was looking to expand to a new audience in the ’60s and ’70s, violence was promoted. If you knew how to fight, you were an “enforcer”. Dropping gloves would be a regular staple during the ’70s and ’80s. As the NHL moved away from an era of the Broad Street Bullies, fighting still had a presence. But at what cost?

In 2011, the Hockey world would be hit with few tragedies. The question of banning fighting was thrust into the limelight. Interestingly enough, many players are not keen on the idea of removing the fighting element from hockey, even bristling at the idea.

“I hate that it’s even being talked about. It’s absolutely ridiculous that even the notion of fighting being taken out. What a terrible mindset.”-Buffalo Sabres captain Steve Ott

While many players feel that throwing punches isn’t the sole cause of concussions, the effects of cheap hits and high sticks are all too real. The deaths of three players in 2011 offered a real glimpse of what these players go through to deal with the pain that comes with playing a physical contact sport. In the summer of 2011, the close-knit hockey community would suffer a few devastating blows.

THE BOOGEYMAN

PHOTO CREDITS: (USATSI

At 6-foot-7, 265 pounds Derek Boogaard, aka “Boogeyman, had a menacing presence in the NHL. In his debut with the Minnesota Wild, he fought 16 times. With a reputation as one of the most feared enforcers, for many rookies, dancing with the Boogeyman was a rite of passage. Suffering from shoulder and hand issues, Boogaard also dealt with recovering from multiple concussions. Sadly, this would lead to a reliance on painkillers. Fighting would take a toll on Boogaard’s body.

After spending some time in rehab in 2009 and in 2011, Boogaard returned to Minnesota before playing for the New York Rangers. It would be his last NHL campaign. He was found dead in an apartment he shared with his brother from an accidental overdose of drugs and alcohol. Boogaard’s family successfully sued the NHL two years after his passing. His family also accused the teams he played for over-prescribing painkillers. Examinations of Boogaard’s brain showed evidence of advanced chronic traumatic encephalopathy.

A SECOND DEATH

Three months after Boorgarad’s death and fresh from signing with the Winnipeg Jets, 27 year-old Rick Rypien committed suicide. He had been suffering from depression for tenyears and took two leaves of absences while playing for the Canucks. He would live with fellow teammate Kevin Bieska and his family so that someone would keep watch over him. When Rypien failed to show up for a physical, teammates grew concerned. Unfortunately, a family member found his body at his home in Coleman, Alberta.

A SAD ENDING

PHOTO CREDITS: (John Russell)

A couple of weeks after Rypien death, former Nashville Predator Wade Belak was found dead, hanging in a hotel room. The former enforcer was known for being a ferocious fighter, however, he was also known for having a great sense of humor. According to his mother, he had been battling depression for a while. For these players, there is the unspoken emotional toll of being a fighter and a sense of being invincible. For many, depression isn’t something you talk about. Former Leaf player Nick Kypreos said it poignantly,

“You don’t really discuss your inner feelings about the job description with another guy who fights. You just know.”

PART TWO

Next week in our series, we discuss the NHL response, including the claim of ignorance of several team owners when it comes to understanding CTE.

PHOTO CREDITS: (Michael Seamans)

Follow Liz Rizzo on Twitter @pastagrl88

The Best Free Agent Signings in Bruins History

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Throughout their rich history, the Bruins made some great additions through free agency. Below, we present our picks for the Bruins’ top 12 best free agents signings.

James Gaitlin (@JamieGatlin1217)’s Picks:

Torey Krug

Boston gave Krug a contract after he went undrafted in 2012. Since then, the Michigan State product has improved his defensive game and excelled offensively. Krug has scored 52 goals and 183 assists for Boston. He has been a weapon on the power play as 20 of his 52 goals have come on the man advantage. He helped the Bruins advance to the Stanley Cup finals in the 2012- 2013 season. The Bruins have control of Krug for the next two seasons after extending him in June 2016. Krug has become into an impactful player that many people did not see coming and has been key to the Bruins’ success.

Zdeno Chara

During the 2006 offseason the Bruins signed Chara to a five-year deal worth $7.5 million annually, which at the time was the largest for a defenseman. Since signing that deal Chara, has had an historic career in Boston. He won the Norris Trophy in 2009 and has had multiple top five finishes since. Chara has recorded more than fifty points in a season three times in his twelve year tenure in Boston. His importance to the franchise is not just reflected in his stats. As Chara becomes older, he has served as a mentor for the younger Bruins. He is a key mentor for the next wave of Bruins defensemen, including Brandon Carlo and Charlie McAvoy. Signing Chara may be the best free agent signing in franchise history as his career in Boston has been that will be hard to replicate.

Blake Wheeler

Wheeler spent the first three seasons of his career with the Bruins before being traded for Rich Peverely. He was drafted in the first round by the Coyotes, but the Bruins were able to sign him away. Wheeler recorded 45 points in his first year in Boston, including three game-winning goals. He followed that up with a 38 point season that included two game winning goals. Wheeler was a solid player in Boston and brought the Bruins Peverley, who contributed to their championship run in 2011.

Glen Murray

Murray spent the first three years of his career with the Bruins before leaving for Pittsburgh after the 1994-1995 season. Murray returned to the Bruins via trade in the 2001-2002 season. After scoring 35 goals in 73 games, the Bruins re-signed their former first round pick. Murray followed up his 35 goal season with a career year as he had 44 goals along with 48 assists. He led the league with 32 even strength goals and had five game winners. After re-signing with the Bruins he had the two best seasons of his career making the contract one the Bruins would not regret.

Anton Khudobin

Prior to the 2016-2017 the Bruins signed free agent Anton Khudobin to a two-year deal worth $1.2 million. Khudobin struggled mightily in the first half of the 2016-2017 season before finishing strong. This past season Khudobin had the best season of his career. He was the strong backup the Bruins had been missing and pushed Rask to be his best. Khudobin had his lowest goals against average 2013- 2014 season and recorded his first shutout in two years. Khudobin breakout season made what the Bruins paid worthwhile and re-signing him could be key.

Bruce Crowder

Bruce Crowder began his career with the Flyers after they drafted him 153rd overall in the 1977 NHL draft. The Bruins signed Crowder 1981 and remained in Boston through 1984. In three years with the Bruins he scored 43 goals and had 44 assists. Crowder was not an extremely dangerous offensive player, but he had three solid seasons in Boston

Liz Rizzo (@pastagrl88)’s Picks

Gerry Cheevers

Wild, feisty, bombastic and highly competitive, this legendary goaltender is on our list as one the best free agents signings in Bruins history. From St. Catherine, Ontario, the Toronto Maple leafs owned his rights during the 1960s. He was picked up by Boston in 1965, played in the minors for a while before playing in the NHL in 1967. A knee injury led to his demotion to Oklahoma City where he met Harry Sinden.

In the following year, Sinden was promoted as head coach of the Boston Bruins. When their starting goaltender suffered an injury, Cheevers got the call. That summer, Boston had to make a decision in which goaltenders they would protect in the draft; they kept Cheevers and Eddie Johnston. Cheevers played 44 games with a 2.83 average to Johnston’s 20 with a 2.87 save average. The Bruins won the Stanley Cup in the 1969-1070 series and in 1972. Cheevers went to the WHA before being signed again as a free agent with the Bruins. In 1980, he retired in Boston. After 13 seasons in the NHL, Cheevers was inducted into the Hall of Fame. Harry Sinden said it best about Cheevers:

“Certainly we had Bobby Orr and Phil Esposito, but I’m sure we couldn’t have won the Cups without Gerry Cheevers”

Johnny Boychuk

A top four level defensemen, Boychuk came to Boston via Colorado and proved to be an important member of the Bruins during their 2010-2011 Stanley Cup win. Boychuk played both defense and offense. In his six years with the Bruins he played 317 games, with 19 goals, 56 assists for 75 points, playing an average of 20 minutes on ice. In the shortened 2012-2013 season, Boychuk played consistently in the defensive zone. The Bruins traded Boychuk to the New York Islanders for two picks, one of which would be Brandon Carlo.

Mark Recchi

In 2009, free agent Recchi signed a deal with the Boston Bruins and was part of the 2011 Stanley Cup team. He played 25 games that year with five goals. In his three years with the Bruins he played 180 games, with 42 goals and 65 assists. His last year in the NHL he played as a defensive forward with more than half his shift time spent in the defensive zone. He made three Stanley Cup playoff appearances with the last being in Boston. At age 43, he became the oldest player to ever score in the Stanley Cup finals. In June 2017, Recchi was elected into the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Dominic Moore

A tough fourth liner center, Moore turned out to be a pretty good signing by current GM Don Sweeney. As a free agent, he signed a one year deal with the Bruins worth $900,000. Moore played a strong game: in 82 games he netted 11 goals with 14 assists. He was a clutch face-off player and consistently killed penalties. For what the Bruins paid for they received a lot in return.

Riley Nash

Along with Anton Khudobin, Nash was signed as a free agent to a two-year, $1.8 million contract in 2016. Nash made good on his contract and came in when the Bruins needed him. With Patrice Bergeron out this past season with an injury, Nash filled that spot nicely. In the Toronto Playoff series, Nash contributed to the first two goals in Game four. He finished this season with 41 points, played in 76 games with 15 goals and 26 assists. Nash proved to be little risk for the Bruins, but with how he’s been performing, it’s proving to be a good investment.

Marc Savard

In the 2004-2005 NHL lockout, Savard played in Swiss league prior to signing as a free agent with Bruins in a four-year, $20 million dollar deal. He led the Bruins in scoring tallying up 96 points. He had 74 assists (third in the league) behind Joe Thornton and Sidney Crosby. After 11 seasons in the NHL, he made his Stanley Cup Playoff debut. He scored his first NHL Playoff goal in overtime in Game 3 against Montreal.

In the 2008-2009 season, he led the Bruins in scoring with 88 points in 82 games. Unfortunately, Savard career took a bad turn when he suffered multiple concussions. Diagnosed with post concussion syndrome, Savard was not able to participate in the Vancouver series in the 2011 Stanley Cup Win. Despite not playing in that series, the Bruins petitioned to have Savard’s name engraved on the cup and was successful in doing so. Savard had a breakthrough career with the Bruins from 2006-2011 and formally announced his retirement in 2018.

NHL Draft 2018

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WELCOME TO BOSTON

Today was day two of the 2018 NHL Draft, and the Bruins made some pretty decent picks. After coming out empty-handed in a “painful” first round, Boston wasted no time in selecting some new faces. With the 57th pick, the Bruins selected Sweden’s Axel Andersson. Next, Jakub Lauko from the Czech Republic was selected. The Bruins’ third pick is American Curtis Hall. Canadian Dustyn McFaul was selected for the 181th pick, and Russian Pavel Shen was their final pick.

SWEDEN

18 year old Axel Andersson was Bruins’ first pick in the second round. At 6’0″ and 183lbs, this blue line defenseman shoots right and describes his playing style as:

“I’m a two way defenseman with some-read the game well and have a good shot and a good passer.”

He spent the last two years playing for the Djurgarden Jr. team in the SuperElit. Axel is ranked 27th on the NHL scouting in Europe. This past season he had a plus 14 rating, netting six goals and 25 assists, earning 31 points in 42 games.

In 2016-2017, he had a plus seven rating with three goals and eight assists (11 points) in 29 games. Prior to that season, he played in 21 games for team Sodertalje SK J18; he had nine assists and a plus 15 rating. Andersson also recently won the bronze metal with Team Sweden in the Under 18 World Junior Championship, where he recorded two assists in seven games.

CZECH REPUBLIC

In their second pick in the third round, Boston selected 6′, 179 lbs 18 year old center Jakub Lauko. The Czech forward is ranked 20th in the NHL scouting for European skaters. A speedy and tenacious skater, Lauko likens himself to Dylan Larkin as a player. On being a Bruin:

“It’s one of the biggest moments in my life so far and I really enjoyed it… I really appreciate it and really thankful to Boston organization that they drafted me.”

STATS

He spent two season on the Chomutov team in the Czech Republic. This past season he had three goals and six assists in 42 games. In the playoffs, he had one goal and two assists. In the Pirati Under 16 team, Lauko had a plus-28 rating. He potted 26 goals with 35 assists for 61 points. With the 2015-2016 Under 18 team, he had a plus-seven rating with 22 points in 29th games.

In the 2017-2018 Under 18 Czech team, he had six goals and one assist for a total of seven points. In the World Junior Championship, he had one goal in six games. For the Under 18 World Junior Team, he had six points in seven games.

USA

Yale-bound Curtis Hall is the Bruins’ third pick (119th overall) and is described as a big, strong center. At 6’3, 201 lbs the New Jersey Native has recently played for the Youngstown Phantoms. He is currently 60th in the NHL Scouting in North America. The young 18 year old likens his playing style after David Backes.

STATS

He registered 13 goals and 18 assists in 54 games playing in the 2017-2018 season. In the playoff games, he earned a plus three rating with three goals and three assists. In 2016-2017, he earned a plus-seven rating with seven goals and 14 assists. While skating for the Cleveland Barons Under 16 in the T1EHL (2015-2016), he netted ten goals with 24 assists.

Hall also played in the Team USA Under 18 team, where he registered three goals and on assist. And lastly, in the 2018 Under 19 World Junior A Challenge, he had one goal and an assist in five games.

CANADA

As the 181th pick, the Bruins selected defenseman Dustyn McFaul. The 17 Year old Ontario native stands at 6’2″, 188lbs and shoots left. Awarded the OJHL First Team All Prospect, McFaul ranks 164th in the NHL Central scouting among skaters. Playing recently for the Pickering Panthers, he netted four goals, with 15 assists in 38 game played. He secured a scholarship to Clarkson University, who has one the top Division 1 hockey programs in the NCAA. His recent coach David DeMarinis had this to say:

“He’s been our rock on the back-end… been playing about 26 minutes a night… [he’s] poised back there. It’s the fine details of his game that are really impressive.”

In the OHL Cup, McFaul registered two assists in the four games he played. IN the Triple A minors, he had two goals and eight assists in the 36 games he played.

RUSSIA

At 6’1″, 183lbs, the Russian center Pavel Shen (described as a “competitive and highly skilled forward”) is their final pick. The 18-year-old has spent most time the MHL for the Mamonty-Yugry team. However, he has played in the KHL for a little bit with team Yugra Khanty-Mansiysk.

STATS

He currently ranks 32nd in the NHL Central Scouting for EU players. In the 2017-2018 season in the MHL (Molodyozhnaya Hokkeinaya Liga) he registered 12 goals, 14 assists in 29 games played, earning a plus 10 rating. For the KHL, he had two goals in 29 games. Shen also participated in the International Junior Russian Under 20 team playing three games with no goals or assists.

Playing for the Under 16 team, Shen netted 27 goals and 18 assists in the 35 games he played. He also had some nice numbers for the Under 17 team; in the 28 games played, he had ten goals with eight assists.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Bruins GM Don Sweeney made some nice moves in this year’s draft. Securing these young players will only add depth to the Bruins Roster. Hopefully, we’ll see some of the speed these players offer in the NHL real soon.

David Pastrnak Tops Czech Awards

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For the second consecutive year, Boston Bruins right winger David Pastrnak was awarded the Golden Hockey Stick Award for top Czech Player of the Year. Fellow countryman David Krejci ended up in third place.

GOLDEN STATS

The 22 year old ended the 2017-2018 regular season with 80 points in 82 games. For the playoffs, Pastrnak burst out quickly—in just 12 games he garnered 20 points. In Game 2 of the Toronto series, Boston saw Pastrnak score a hat trick along with three assists, for a total of six points. “Pasta” beat a record previously held by Wayne Gretzky as the youngest player in NHL history to get six points in one game.

THE VOTES WERE IN

In the final tally, Pastrnak came out on top, ahead of Philadelphia Flyers forward Jakub Voracek and David Krejci. The Czech center ended the season with 17 goals and 27 assists for a total of 44 points in 64 games played. In the playoffs, he had ten points, netting three goals and seven assists.

OVERSEAS

In the 2018 IIHF in Copenhagen, Denmark, the two were on the same line and posted some pretty good numbers; “Pasta” had four goals and two assists while Krejci had one goal and five assists. Both players ended up with six points in five games played. Being successful overseas has certainly trickled back to Boston, where GM Don Sweeney has said that “Nothing is set in stone” in keeping lines together.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Will Bruce Cassidy change the dynamics of the Bergeron, Marchand and Pastrnak line to spread out offensive skill? Too many rumors surround the organization as we hit the first day of the NHL draft in Dallas. Moving that first line would really depend on who the Bruins sign (Kovulchuk is still a big question). And with recent talks about moving Krecji and Backes, we would be seeing some lines shifting. This offseason has certainly been a little crazy and as fans, we’ll just have to wait and see.

Boston Bruins- the Grizz Is Back

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Late Friday Night, the Boston Bruins announced that they signed restricted free agent Matt Grzelcyk to a two-year deal worth $2.8 million. The Charlestown native will be signed through the 2019-202 season.

BY THE NUMBERS

This past season, the 24-year-old defenseman had quite the season, if not impressive for a rookie. As one of the many first-year players that made an impact, Grzelcyk tallied up three goals and 12 assists over 61 games. During the Stanley Cup playoff run, he had one assist. At just 5’9″, 174 lbs, the defenseman looks to add some strength to his game:

“Getting in the weight room is obviously huge for me, like it is every offseason,” Grzelcyk said. “I think just quite a bit of confidence going into next year, and trying to earn a spot again, that hasn’t changed.”

A third-round pick for the Bruins in 2012, Grzelcyk spent his first season in Providence. In this past season, “Grizz” played alongside veteran defenseman Kevin Miller, adding some much-needed depth on the blue line. During the regular season, he logged 16:44 ice time minutes; in the playoffs, he averaged 15:56 minutes on ice. Grzelcyk also scored his first NHL goal this past season.

First @NHL goal for Boston-area kid, Matt Grzelcyk! 🚨 pic.twitter.com/b8Xovq9KNO

— NBC Sports Hockey (@NBCSportsHockey) November 24, 2017

A LEARNING EXPERIENCE

Boston’s playoff run has been talked about, analyzed and dissected. No matter which way you look at it, this Bruins team will be quite the force this coming season. For Matt Grzelcyk, the Tampa series was one to reflect on, particularly the third game. For the defenseman, an unfortunate puck “hop” led to an opening goal by Tampa Bay. Grzelyck had the puck at his feet, however, because of that hop, he found himself spinning back towards the blue line. The puck, still bouncing, was fed to Tampa’s Ondrej Palat who was able to beat Rask on his high blocker side, sending it into the back of the net. A rough start in a tough series, but Grizz made no excuses:

“Yeah, just trying to gap up, [and] the puck kind of felt like it backspun on me on the ice. I thought it maybe went behind me. I just took my eye off the puck I guess and they capitalized because they’re a good team..Obviously not the way you want to start the game and that was just tough bouncing back after that.’’

NEW SEASON, NEW START

As GM Don Sweeney continues to make some key decisions affecting the Bruins roster, there’s was that question: would he bring back Grzelcyk? After all, he was going to be an RFA at the end of the season. Then came the good news: the Bruins re-signed Grzelcyk for two more years. Boston is continuing its focus on the youth movement by keeping Grizz. It’s always good to see a Boston native play for their home team, and fans alike see #48 at the Garden for a little longer.

Welcome back, Kid

Providence Bruins- Getting to Know Connor Clifton

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In the leading months the NHL regular season, the Bruins have been positioning themselves into becoming a dominant force in 2018. And to become a contender, you have to not only look at your current roster, but also develop your AHL prospects. In a league where every player is competing for a spot in the big leagues, how do you make a big enough impact for the NHL to take notice? For New Jersey native Connor Clifton, making that impact has been an improving steady climb.

BACKGROUND

The 23-year-old defenseman recently played for the Quinnipiac University Bobcats. Drafted in 2013 by the Arizona Coyotes, Clifton wasn’t able to make much of an impact and ultimately parted ways with the team. The Bruins quickly signed him in 2017, and he’s played in Providence since then. He continues to improve steadily, so much so that the Bruins recently signed him to a two-year NHL deal worth $725,000 per year.

Prior to signing with the Bruins, he joined the U.S. National Development Team in 2011. He was later invited back to the team where he played alongside Frank Vatrano and Anders Bjork. He was also teammates with a young Jack Eichel and Dylan Larkin.

BOBCATS

In 2013, Clifton attended Quinnipiac University in Connecticut, where he played alongside his brother, Tim. During his freshman year, he posted five goals with four assists in 36 games. The 43rd captain in Bobcats history played in 43 games and potted seven goals and 21 assists. During Quinnipiac’s run in the 2016 NCAA Frozen Four playoffs, Clifton nicely showed his defensive presence as he laid out North Dakota forward Austin Pogorski in a clean shoulder to shoulder hit:

https://vine.co/v/iTqe2vFu5jv

That year was he received ECAC Hockey All-Tournament Team honors and was awarded Most Outstanding Player of the tournament. He was also named to the 2016 NCAA East All-Frozen Four Team and named Quinnipiac’s Male Athlete of the Month. He ended his college career totaling 19 goals, 37 assists and 56 points in 156 NCAA games. Bobcats’ head coach Rand Pecknold had this to say about Clifton:

“Connor was the heart and soul of our team. His character and commitment to excellence is outstanding. We wish him all the best as he moves forward with his professional career.”

PROVIDENCE

In his first year with Providence, Clifton played in 54 games with four goals and nine assists and had a +11 plus/minus rating. On Dec 9^th, 2017 the young defenseman scored his first professional NHL goal:

Check out Connor Clifton's first pro goal!! #LetsGoBruins pic.twitter.com/DONr2icRG4

— Providence Bruins (@AHLBruins) December 10, 2017

Clifton ended the last 26 games left in the season with ten points and a +11 rating. Could he make an appearance in the NHL this season? There’s lots of competition with the likes of recently signed Urho Vaakanainen, Jakub Zboril, and Jeremy Lauzon. For someone like Connor, he’ll have to continue to make a name for himself down in Providence. With his rugged defensive playing skills, Clifton will no doubt be a player to watch out for.

TRADE RUMORS-BOSTON BRUINS

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GETTING A HEAD START

After the recent NHL combine that’s was held in Buffalo, NY, many prospective draft picks were closely monitored. The Boston Bruins interviewed close to 80 potential players, but one thing has been lurking on GM Don Sweeney’s mind: to get the first round pick back. As we near the June 22^nd NHL draft day, there’s been a lot of rumblings throughout the organization on possible trades for the upcoming season. Let’s take a closer look at some of those rumors.

OPEN MARKET

For the Bruins, getting the higher draft pick position back will be difficult. Another question facing Boston: who should they keep? One name that’s being brought up is Rick Nash. He missed the last 12 regular season games and in the playoff run, recorded three goals and two assists on 39 shots. With limited internal options, Sweeney looks to re-sign Nash, perhaps on a deal that would be cap friendly:

“ Rick indicated when he came to Boston that he was excited about the opportunity. He wants to win… wants an opportunity to win. He felt badly and certainly he’s not responsible for this, because he got injured. It took away a little juice from him..I think..from a size and puck protection standpoint, he gave us something that was maybe missing in that regard.”

ELSEWHERE

Austin Czarnik, who spent most of his career in AHL with Providence , is starting to look elsewhere. But the Bruins are still open in talks with the young center.

“ We certainly haven’t closed the door. I don’t think he has as well, but I would be surprise if he doesn’t get to at least see what may present itself as options for him”

And there’s the sticky situation with RFA’s Matt Grzelcyk and Sean Kuraly. Sweeney and the Bruins will try to avoid arbitration with the two players, who have had a pretty gritty 2017-2018 season.

WHAT’S UP WITH TOREY KRUG

There ‘s no question that Krug is a pretty good defenseman. He may be small in stature at 5”9, but STATS don’t lie. 52 goals in 398 games with 183 assists garnering a total of 235 career points. If the rumors are true, the Oilers are looking to trade Oscar Klefbom who, (when healthy) can add some much-needed even strength. Again, if you look at numbers, Klefbom has played 255 games and posted 24 goals garnering 94 points. Klefbom’s defense abilities and puck read were problematic this year so I’m not entirely convinced trading Krug for Klefbom would a great add to the Bruins roster. Now if the Bruins can somehow secure Carolina’s Noah Hanifin, that could potentially beef up their defense-something that Boston needs.

ALL ABOUT DEFENSE

At 6’3 , 205lbs, Boston Native Noah Hanifin would add the extra height for the Bruins defense. He had his best season in Carolina last year, scoring 10 goals with 22 assists. But if you’re going to go after top-notch talent, you ‘re going to have to give up something and for the Bruins that means letting some of their young talent go elsewhere. Right now, Boston has an enviable system where they have a flourishing amount of players coming up. But would that also include letting go of someone like Krug to sweeten the deal?

FROM NHL TO KHL BACK TO NHL

Lastly, another huge rumor involving the Bruins is the possible signing of left winger Ilya Kovalchuk. The 35 year old Russian native has spent a handful of years in the KHL and is looking to make the jump back in the NHL. recently, he has had talks with the San Jose Sharks and the LA Kings. Although, no one is expecting him to play the same way when he was with New Jersey, he did garner 63 points in 53 games, along with potting 31 goals. And at 6’3, 230 pounds, he could be the BIG body that the Krecji/DeBrusk line need. He can certainly work the net and skate well, but would signing a 35-year-old be worth it? If it was a short-term type of deal, it could be worth pursuing, but we’ll have to wait until July 1^st when he becomes available.

FINAL THOUGHTS

The bar is set pretty high for the 2018-2019 season and the Bruins need to make decisions. In a perfect setting, Boston would sign every single player they have, but as the story goes, it’s just not the reality. Every hockey analyst will be watching the NHL draft in Dallas next week and the Black and Gold will be looking making some important moves.

For more info, follow Liz Rizzo on Twitter @pastagrll88

Bruins Prospects to Watch out For

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The 2018 season is over and the Boston Bruins are finally resting amid all the injuries they were playing with, GM Don Sweeney and Co. have been busy looking to make much-needed changes to the team‘s roster.

With rumors swirling about possible trades with the Carolina Hurricanes, the Bruins will be looking to help bolster their defense. The most exciting thing about this recent team was the important impact that the young prospects had. Even though the season ended shortly and, let’s be honest –exceeded everyone’s expectations, there’s no question that Sweeney and Neely will be faced with some tough decisions. They’ve made it no secret that they would love to keep everybody, however it’s just not reality. There’s a lot of young talent that’s being developed in Providence and they’ll be looking to earn a spot on the Bruins team. Let’s take a look at a few prospects that could very well shine through next season.

Photo courtesy of Ted Fitzgerald-Boston Herald

LOOKING AHEAD

The Bruins already have a promising group of young guys already in the lineup. Young superstars such as Jake Debrusk , Charlie McAvoy, Matt Grzelcyk, Sean Kuraly, Ryan Donato, Brandon Carlo and, even though he’s not a first-year guy David Pastrnak, who had a breakthrough season. As Don Sweeney looks make some moves on who stays, there are quite a few prospects looking to break through and earn a spot on the Bruins’ roster.

RYAN DONATO

As the Bruins were poised to make a postseason run, they received great news. 22 year old Boston-native Ryan Donato would sign an entry-level contract with the Black and Gold. In his debut for the Bruins, he scored his first NHL goal. In the regular season, he ended with a respectable nine points in the 12 games he played. Donato knows how to score: he posted 26 goals and 43 points in 29 games for the Harvard Crimson. A natural scorer, he potted five goals in six games while competing in the 2018 Olympics for the U.S.. This young star will be looking to make a huge impact in the 2018-2019 season.

ANDERS BJORK

One player that’s started the beginning of this past season on the first line with Bergeron and Marchand is 21 year old Anders Bjork. He posted 12 points, and was sent back to Providence before having season ending shoulder surgery. With the successful pairing of Pastrnak /Krejci at the recent IIHF tournament , will we see a repeat of Bjork on the first line? For this writer, it probably would not be a bad idea see how Bjork does in training camp first and if need be, send the young winger back down to Providence. Will be interesting to see if Coach Cassidy will break up the first line and insert Bjork alongside with Bergeron.

TRENT FREDERIC

The young prospect is making a name for himself as an all-around player; the 20 year old can score. For the Wisconsin Badgers, he posted 65 points and 66 games and the recent World Junior Championship against the Czech Republic, Frederick potted four goals in a 9-3 victory. He can handle the puck and find passing lanes, making him a threat offensively.

JAKOB FORSBACKA KARLSSON

Selected in 2015 by the Bruins, the Swedish Center skated alongside McAvoy at BU. Playing for the Providence Bruins, JFK potted 32 points in 58 games. As he gains more consistency in his play, JFK will be an effective center offensively. He plays with intensity, turning plays into scoring chances. As the young 21 year old continues to develop, there could a real chance he would get the call and replace Riley Nash when he becomes a free agent this July.

IN THE NAME OF DEFENSE

JEREMY LAUZON

In an effort in bolstering their defense, the Bruins will be looking at 21 year old Jeremy Lauzon. What the Bruins need is someone that can not only defend but move the puck. But if you look at his recent record in Providence last season in 52 games he only managed one goal and six assists. A slow start, but if he wants to play for the Black and Gold, he’ll need to work on more with the coaches as he continues to develop.

URHO VAAKANAINEN

Another defensive prospect is 19 year old Urho Vaakanainen. Drafted in the 2017, he’s been playing solid in the Finnish League, garnering 11 points in 43 games. The young Finn isn’t a splashy player, however he’s a safe bet; calm and steady with a few years of playing pro under his belt. As the Bruins defense make necessary transitions, you’ll need a composed player like Vaakanainen, especially on the blue line.

JAKUB ZBORIL

And lastly another star in the making is 21 year old Czech Jakub Zboril. Drafted in 2015, Zboril plays a solid game; his first season with the Providence Bruins posted 19 points and 68 games. Not the biggest body on ice (6 feet , 201lbs), however, he plays smart especially in the neutral zone. A two-way defenseman, Zboril will need to work hard and gain more experience playing professionally. He’ll be one to watch.

FINAL THOUGHTS

With harsh realities facing the management in regards to who stays and who goes (those Krug rumors won’t go away), every one will be gunning for a spot on the Bruins team. With recent trades that didn’t exactly pan out, Sweeney will have his work cut out for him; the lackluster performance of Rick Nash hasn’t gone unnoticed. The bar is set even higher for next season. The Bruins will need to keep some veterans to help the upcoming prospects. And let’s not forget, they need to make room to keep the young talent. In 2020, many will become restricted free agents. With tough decisions lingering on their minds, there’s no doubt the new season will bring new excitement as the Bruins work hard in their quest for the Stanley Cup.

Follow Liz Rizzo St Pierre on Twitter @pastagrl88

Bruins Players Shine Overseas at the 2018 IIHF

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HEADING TO THE WORLDS

As the annual break up day came to a close, a quick decision was made by some of the Bruins players to opt to continue to play overseas. Czech mates David Pastrnak and David Krejci continued on and represent their home country of the Czech Republic; a few days later Charlie McAvoy flew over to Copenhagen, Denmark to represent the USA in the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF). They say no rest for the weary, and not even jet lag would keep both Krejci and Pastrnak from dazzling at a recent game against Russia. Charlie McAvoy represented the USA in a stellar performance , garnering two goals and two assists in his first game playing against Korea.

“It was a long day, got here a couple hours ago,” McAvoy said. “We have such a good team. It was a great opportunity for me to go out there and just feel the puck and get ready for the rest of tournament.”

KEEPING THEIR LEGS MOVING

Yesterday’s game against France saw Pastrnak scoring two quick goals as the Czech Republic defeated France 6-0. Along with Dmitrij Jaskin, both Davids are seeing success playing on the same line; Krejci has thus far recorded a point in every game in the Worlds.

#FRAvsCVZE A face-off in front of @hockey_FRA's net bests Quemener and Pastrknak has @narodnitym's first goal of the game! #IIHFWorlds pic.twitter.com/y8IPLjgHaq

— IIHF (@IIHFHockey) May 13, 2018

NO MATCH FOR THEIR OPPONENTS

Meanwhile, as the Czech Republic continues to seek their first gold since 2010, Team USA routed Norway yesterday in a 9-3 defeat. Once again, Charlie McAvoy, (whose knee seems to be getting better) got a goal and an assist. The United States are now in first for Group B with 16 points, three more than Finland, while the Czech republic is third in their group behind team Russia.

Team USA will have a tough opponent on Tuesday as they face Finland. The Czechs will face Austria on Monday. As the trio of Bruins players continue to find success overseas, fans will look to see that success translate back home in Boston when the new season starts. Check out the highlights of Team USA vs Team Norway: