Providence Bruins and all other Boston Bruins Prospect discussions

[pilldoc]

All discussion regarding the Boston Bruins and their prospects go here please.

Edited May 27, 2018 by pilldoc

[Brewin Flames]

Prospects...

 

https://www.nhl.com/bruins/team/prospects-headshots

[Brewin Flames]

Top 10 prospects in Bruins organization entering 2020-21 NHL season

The Boston Bruins have an older veteran core that could probably make one or two more runs at a Stanley Cup title. But what happens after that championship window closes?

The best teams replace aging veterans with talented prospects who rise up through the organization and become impact players. Many of these prospects are acquired in the draft.

The Bruins' prospect pool is not loaded with high-end talent. However, there are a few players in the system with really exciting skill sets and a bright future.

Let's take a look at the Bruins' top 10 prospects entering the 2020-21 season.

BY 

NICK GOSS

 - 

23H AGO

USA TODAY SPORTS

 

 

10Jeremy Swayman

 

Getty Images

1 / 10

Position: Goaltender
Age: 21
2019-20 Stats: 18-11-5, .939 SV%, 1.79 GAA (Univ. of Maine)

Swayman is coming off a brilliant season for the University of Maine. He won the Richter Award as the nation's top goaltender and also was named a finalist for the Hobey Baker Award. 

09Curtis Hall

 

Getty Images

2 / 10

Position: Center
Age: 20
2019-20 Stats: 28 GP, 17 G, 10 A, 27 P (Yale University)

Hall is an offensively gifted center with good size (6-foot-3 and 197 pounds) and impressive speed. He led Yale in scoring with 27 points, and his 17 goals were 12 more than he scored as a freshman the season before. Hall was a fourth-round pick (119th overall) of the Bruins in 2018.

Oskar Steen

 

Getty Images

3 / 10

Position: Center
Age: 22
2019-20 Stats: 60 GP, 7 G, 16 A, 23 P (AHL's Providence Bruins)

Steen was a sixth-round pick (165th overall) of the Bruins in 2016 who recently completed his first season with the Providence Bruins. He has the potential to be a useful bottom-six forward at the NHL level with a quick shot and crafty hands. He's currently playing in Sweden, where he's scored four goals in his first six games for Bjorkloven IF.

 

Jakub Zboril

 

 

Position: Defenseman
Age: 23
2019-20 Stats: 58 GP, 3 G, 16 A, 19 P (AHL's Providence Bruins)

Zboril was the first of three first-round picks made by the Bruins in the 2015 draft. He was projected to be a smooth-skating defenseman who would generate consistent offensive production at 5-on-5 and the power play. But unfortunately for the Bruins, Zboril has been unable to carve out a regular role at the NHL level. He's only played in two games for Boston during that span and he's yet to crack the 20-point mark in three AHL seasons. The Bruins recently signed him to a two-year contract, and the expectation is he'll compete for a spot on the third pairing during training camp.

 

Contract details for Zboril's new deal

06Dan Vladar

 

 

Position: Goaltender
Age: 23
2019-20 Stats: 14-7-1, .936 SV%, 1.79 GAA (AHL's Providence Bruins)

Vladar showed tremendous improvement for the Providence Bruins last season -- his second full campaign in the AHL. The 2015 third-round draft pick could be the Bruins' backup goaltender fairly soon, depending on what happens with current No. 1 netminder Tuukka Rask. Rask has one more year left on his contract before free agency.

05Jakub Lauko

 

 

6 / 10

Position: Left wing
Age: 20
2019-20 Stats: 22 GP, 5 G, 4 A, 9 P (AHL's Providence Bruins)

Lauko showed promise during his debut season in the AHL, nearly hitting the 0.5 points per game mark. He recently went back home to the Czech Republic, where he is playing for HC Energie Karlovy Vary. The ideal scenario the Bruins is that he can continue to develop his intriguing offensive game overseas before the next AHL season commences.

 

04Trent Frederic

 

USA TODAY Sports

7 / 10

Position: Center
Age: 22
2019-20 Stats: 59 GP, 8 G, 24 A, 32 P (AHL's Providence Bruins)

Frederic projects to be a bottom-six forward at the NHL level. He's already capable of bringing a physical edge to the ice and isn't afraid to drop the gloves and fight if needed. The hope for the Bruins is the 2016 first-round pick continues to develop into a reliable third line scorer. The upcoming season will be huge for his development as he battles for a spot on the NHL roster.

John Beecher

 

Position: Center
Age: 19
2019-20 Stats: 31 GP, 9 G, 7 A, 16 P (Univ. of Michigan)

Beecher is an exciting prospect with an impressive blend of offensive skill, speed and size (6-foot-3 and 210 pounds). The 2019 first-round pick will be a sophomore at the University of Michigan during the upcoming season.

Urho Vaakanainen

 

9 / 10

Position: Defenseman
Age: 21
2019-20 Stats: 54 GP, 5 G, 9 A, 14 P (AHL's Providence Bruins)

Vaakanainen projects to be a top-four defenseman at the NHL level with his two-way skill set and excellent skating ability. After playing in the AHL the last two years, the 2017 first-round pick should be able to impress enough in training camp/preseason to earn a third-pairing role to begin the 2020-21 campaign.

ins in free agency?

ADRTISEMENT

01Jack Studnicka

 

 

10 / 10

Position: Center
Age: 21
2019-20 Stats: 60 GP, 23 G, 26 A, 49 P (AHL's Providence Bruins)

Studnicka is the Bruins' top prospect and the one with the best chance to make a meaningful impact for Boston next season. He led the P-Bruins in goals, assists and points in his first full AHL season in 2019-20.

His quick shot, smooth skating and versatility -- he can play at center and on the wing -- should help him earn a consistent NHL role pretty quickly. In fact, if first-line wingers Brad Marchand and David Pastrnak are unable to play on Opening Night due to injuries, Studnicka is a candidate to slot in alongside Patrice Bergeron to start the season.

[Brewin Flames]

Here is the link....

 

https://www.nbcsports.com/boston/bruins/top-10-prospects-bruins-organization-entering-2020-21-nhl-season?fbclid=IwAR1Lwt2RxRiM0vig-8_fX52xs03ARDwUBYfqTdQY4xj2dBYdRpDRnGCPzZ0

[Brewin Flames]

Prospects | Boston Bruins (nhl.com)

[Brewin Flames]

P-Bruins sign WHL’s Eli Zummack to a two-year contract

 

 

While the Bruins have plenty to think about at the NHL level, they still need to focus on building out the rest of their organization as well.

 

To that end, the Providence Bruins announced a new signing yesterday, as former Spokane Chiefs forward Eli Zummack was signed to a two-year contract.

 

The deal is an AHL contract, so don’t expect to see Zummack at the NHL level unless his deal is restructured into a two-way deal.

 

 

Still, Zummack projects to bring some scoring punch to a Providence Bruins lineup that will certainly need it, as Paul Carey has departed for Sweden and there’s a chance that guys like Jack Studnicka could compete for NHL time.

 

Zummack turned 21 back in March and was never drafted.

 

The 5’ 9”, 179-lb forward has spent parts of the last five seasons with the Spokane Chiefs of the Western Hockey League, where he put up some impressive numbers.

 

Zummack was particularly impressive over the past three seasons, where he put up 46 goals, 130 assists, and 176 points in 146 regular season games.

 

Zummack is a right-shot center.

In a press release, P-Bruins GM John Ferguson had this to say about Zummack:

“Eli improved each year as a playmaking center for the Spokane Chiefs of the Western Hockey League. We are excited to have him in Providence and look forward to watching his growth and development this season.”

You can catch a glimpse of his game in the highlight reel below (though it was from a couple of seasons ago):

Video player from: YouTube (Privacy Policy, Terms)

Welcome to the organization, kid!

[Brewin Flames]

 

The Boston Bruins remain a top contender in the Eastern Conference after a flurry of free agent signings added plenty of depth to the NHL roster

 

A boost of young talent is needed, though. Unfortunately for the Bruins, they don't have any A-list prospects ready to break into the NHL.

Boston's prospect pool was ranked dead last in The Athletic's February rankings. Before the 2020-21 season, ESPN ranked Boston's system 30th out of 31 teams.

The Bruins' prospect pool has certainly improved since December when that ESPN ranking was released, and a strong 2021 draft last month certainly helped in that regard.

Here's an updated list of the top 10 prospects in the Bruins organization.

1. Fabian Lysell, LW

The Bruins injected some much-needed elite-level offensive talent into their prospect pool with the selection of Lysell in the first round (No. 21 overall) of the 2021 NHL Draft.

 

"I think I’m a dynamic player," Lysell said on a Zoom call with reporters the night he was drafted. "I like to challenge opponents with pace. I try to use my skating to create separation from myself and to be in those dangerous scoring areas. That’s what I think."

 

 

Lysell projects to be a top-six forward at the NHL level. His speed, shot and offensive awareness are all impressive. He consistently creates offense for himself and teammates. Expectations are rightfully high with Lysell given his talent and potential.

2. Mason Lohrei, D

Lohrei is a fast-rising prospect who enjoyed an excellent 2020-21 season for the Green Bay Gamblers of the USHL. The 2020 second-round draft pick tallied 59 points (19 goals, 40 assists) in 48 games. At 6-foot-4 and 205 pounds at age 20, Lohrei has ideal size for someone who projects to be a quality NHL defenseman. His two-way game is impressive, and there's little doubt he's the top defenseman prospect in Boston's system. Don't be surprised if he becomes the Bruins' top prospect regardless of position in the near future.

Lohrei is headed to Ohio State in the fall.

3. Jack Studnicka, C

The 2020-21 season was a bit disappointing for Studnicka, who was expected to play a larger role for the Bruins than he did. Studnicka played 20 games in Boston and tallied just three points (one goal, two assists). He failed to score a goal in 11 games for the Providence Bruins, but did post seven assists. 

David Krejci's departure has opened up a massive opportunity for Studnicka entering training camp. Ice time will be up for grabs this season and he needs to earn a chunk of it, whether that's playing center or on the wing. Studnicka is a very good playmaker and skates well. He has the offensive skill set the B's need, and now it's about being a consistent player against NHL competition.

4. John Beecher, C

Injury (and shoulder surgery in February) derailed Beecher's sophomore season at Michigan, although he still managed to tally eight points (four goals, four assists) in 16 games. He's returning to the Wolverines for his junior season, and it's a huge year for him. Beecher has an opportunity to be a top player and a leader for a Michigan team that's absolutely loaded with elite talent (four picks in the top five of the 2021 draft, including No. 1 selection Owen Power). Beecher has excellent size (6-foot-3 and 210 pounds) and the type of speed NHL coaches covet. The Bruins need prospects with top-six center potential following David Krejci's recent departure and Patrice Bergeron turning 36 years old last month.

 

ð¥ #NHLBruins forward prospect John Beecher on his recovery from shoulder surgery: "Just knocking some of the rust off still. Iâve still only had five or six actual skates since my surgery. Iâm coming along. But itâs just another step in the process to get back for the season." pic.twitter.com/ruS8tGv7Zu

— Boston Bruins (@NHLBruins) August 2, 2021

5. Jakub Lauko, LW

Lauko has excellent speed, which could make him a valuable NHL forward at some point. He also plays with a high hockey IQ. Lauko took a huge step offensively last season, tallying 19 points (five goals, 14 assists) in 23 games for the Providence Bruins -- an improvement from nine points in 22 games the previous year. It wouldn't be crazy if Lauko made his NHL debut in 2021-22.

6. Urho Vaakanainen, D

It's time for Vaakanainen to earn a regular role at the NHL level. He has yet to make an impact for the Bruins despite being a first-round pick (18th overall) back in 2017. The Finnish defenseman is a smart, quality skater with a good two-way skill set. He's not going to light up the stat sheet with crazy scoring numbers but he plays a poised, fundamentally strong game.

ADVERTISEMENT

The ideal scenario for the Bruins is Vaakanainen giving them valuable depth as a consistent third-pairing guy next season. Four years after being drafted, it's time for his skill set to finally translate to the NHL level.

7. Jack Achan, D

Achan doesn't have tremendous size (5-foot-8 and 178 pounds) but he certainly plays like someone well over six feet. He brings plenty of physicality to the ice and doesn't shy away from puck battles in the dirty areas. His offensive game is impressive as well, and he tallied 10 points (one goal, nine assists) in 19 games for the the Providence Bruins last season.

Achan played three games in Boston in 2020-21 and could get a larger look this coming season, especially if he has a good training camp/preseason.

8. Brett Harrison, C

The Bruins needed to add center depth in the 2021 draft, so the selection of Brett Harrison in the third round made a lot of sense. He tallied 37 points (21 goals, 16 assists) in 58 games for the OHL's Oshawa Generals in 2019-20 before the pandemic wiped out the 2020-21 OHL campaign. At 6-foot-2 and 188 pounds as an 18-years-old forward, Harrison has ideal size at a premium position. His speed is not incredible, but his goal scoring ability makes him an exciting prospect.

9. Curtis Hall, C

The Ivy League didn't have a 2020-21 season amid the pandemic, so Hall did not play his junior season at Yale. Instead, he turned pro and signed an entry-level contract with the Bruins in March. Hall played 13 games for the Providence Bruins last season and should get plenty of run in the AHL during the 2021-22 campaign. At 6-foot-3 and 200 pounds with a powerful shot, Hall is an intriguing talent with plenty of motivation.

ð¥ #NHLBruins forward prospect Curtis Hall on transitioning from Yale to the @AHLBruins last season: "Itâs quicker, faster, guys are stronger. Really been doing my best to work on my footwork and my speed, as well as getting stronger." pic.twitter.com/Hiif9z80IA

— Boston Bruins (@NHLBruins) August 3, 2021

10. Kyle Keyser, G

Keyser could be the No. 1 goalie for the AHL's Providence Bruins with Jeremy Swayman likely spending all or most of the upcoming season at the NHL level and Dan Vladar being traded to the Calgary Flames. It's a huge opportunity for Keyser to establish himself as a valuable prospect in the system. He posted a 3-1-1 record with a .913 save percentage for the P-Bruins last year, and that's a good foundation to build on entering the new season.

[Brewin Flames]

Bruin’s Prospects Look to Take Home Hardware

•  

Many have looked down upon the Boston Bruins prospect pool and laughed as recent draft picks that have not developed at the rate that many expect these days. While this is true, it’s also essential to remain patient as good things come to those that wait; at least, we hope so in Boston. A lot of the Bruins prospect pool is the age range of 19-22 leaving a lot of hope that these players need a few more years to fill out physically improve certain aspects of their game that will thrust them forward to the next echelon of skilled hockey players that are in the NHL. Time and patience are the keys to wavering the storm that our prospects are busts and allowing them to develop into the players the organization envisioned they would be when they were drafted. 

Ty Gallagher Named to Hockey East All-Rookie Team

When many started to think the state of the Bruins prospect pool was looking bleak besides Mason Lohrei and Fabian Lysell, a new name is appearing thanks to his strong performance in his rookie year in none other than Beantown. That’s right, the young defenseman Ty Gallagher who has been putting up a solid first year at Boston University just got recognized for it. The 19-year-old right-shot Bruins defensemen prospect just received notice that he was selected to the Hockey East All-Rookie Team. This comes as no surprise as Gallagher has been anchoring a Terriers team that he just helped win the historic Bean Pot last month.

On the season, Gallagher put up stats of five goals, 11 assists for 16 points across 33 games for Boston University, where he also led all Hockey East rookies with 44 blocked shots. Gallagher, who was selected in the seventh round during the 2021 draft, has looked solid so far in his young career and has been awarded for it not just with the All-Rookie team but also by being named Hockey East Rookie of the week twice, once on October 25th and the other time on January 10th. Gallagher also took home Hockey East Defender of the week back on December 13th to top it all off. The Michigan Native who is listed at 6’0″ and 187 lbs. is showing promise as he continues to grow and build his game up in one of the best College Hockey Conferences in the US, leaving a lot of hope for the future when it comes time to promote him the big leagues.

Mason Lohrei Finalist for Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year

Already one of the two top prospects in the Bruins organization, Mason Lohrei continues to make a name for himself and show why he was the right decision when the Bruins drafted him 58th overall in the second round of the 2020 draft. After three years of playing juniors in the USHL for the Green Bay Gamblers, Lohrei has taken his talents to the NCAA, where the 21-year-old now suits up for Ohio State University. In his first season for the Buckeyes, the freshmen Lohrei already finds himself being named a finalist for the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year award thanks to his ability to use that massive 6-foot-4 frame and strong puck-moving skills that have separated him from others in his young career. Lohrei’s ability to move the puck has led to 25 assists, leading the Buckeyes and helping put Lohrei top ten in the Big Ten for points and assists. Lohrei is also cementing himself in Buckeyes history during year one by becoming just the 11th player in team history to have registered a plus-5 rating in a game since the 1999 season. Keep an eye out for whether Mason Lohrei wins Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year as the results will be announced on Tuesday, March 15th, so stay tuned.

[Brewin Flames]

Breaking News: Bruins Sign Defenseman Michael Callahan to Two Year Entry-Level Deal

•  MARCH 14, 2022
•  
• ATLANTIC DIVISION BOSTON BRUINS EASTERN CONFERENCE NHL
•  
• MICHAEL CALLAHAN
•  
•  

Photo by Richard T Gagnon/Getty Images

On Monday, the Boston Bruins announced the signing of Providence College defenseman Michael Callahan to a two-year entry-level contract. The rights to Callahan were acquired from Arizona for a seventh-round pick on February 22nd.

 

The 22-year-old Callahan is a senior captain at Providence and is a native of Franklin, Massachusetts. The 6’2” 200, pounds left-shot defenseman has totaled 13 goals and 53 assists in 138 games in college. The former 5th round pick of the Coyotes in 2018 was a Hockey East All-Star in 2020.

 

The terms of the contract are two years at a cap hit of $883,750. Callahan will report to The Providence Bruins of the AHL this season and will be on an amateur tryout next season when his NHL contract begins.

[Brewin Flames]

Breaking News: Boston Bruins Sign Boston College Star Marc McLaughlin To Two-Year Entry-Level Contract

•  MARCH 15, 2022
•  
• ATLANTIC DIVISION BOSTON BRUINS EASTERN CONFERENCE NHL
•  
•  

Photo by Richard T Gagnon/Getty Images

On Tuesday, the Boston Bruins announced the signing of Boston College forward Marc McLaughlin to a two-year entry-level contract. The 22-year-old two-year captain scored 21 goals this season at The Heights and attended Bruins Development Camp last summer.

The North Billerica, Massachusetts native, is a lifelong Bruins fan and played for Team USA in the Winter Olympics in Beijing. At 6’0” 210 pounds, McLaughlin is a right-shot center who is regarded as one of the top available free agent college players in the nation.

This is the second Hockey East player to sign with Boston in the last week. The Bruins have also signed Providence College defenseman Michael Callahan.

[Brewin Flames]

 

Report: Don Sweeney Confident Fabian Lysell is Ready for a Promotion to Boston

•  MARCH 22, 2022
•  
•  

  

Photo: NBC Sports Boston

Now that the 2022 NHL trade deadline has come and gone, the Bruins can adjust their sights and focus solely on one thing and one thing only, winning the Stanley Cup. Don Sweeney was Don Sweeney at the trade deadline as he made one massive move as he did in the previous year, followed by a more minor, less impactful trade.

 

Sweeney addressed one of the three significant question marks surrounding this year’s team as retooled the defense and only the defense with the likes of top-four defenseman Hampus Lindholm and bottom pairing defenseman Josh Brown. Yes, acquiring Hampus Lindholm and then signing him to an eight-year extension with a $6.5 million AAV was a home run for Don Sweeney.

 

But not addressing a second-line center, denying Jake Debrusk his trade request at the deadline, and upgrading that top-line right winger spot after being connected to so many players in different trades was a disappointment. Don Sweeney’s words after the trade deadline passed sparked some excitement in the hearts of Bruins fans all over as he discussed top prospect and 2021 first-round draft pick Fabian Lysell.

Fabian Lysell So Far this Season

Lysell is a 19-year-old Swedish winger with so much skill and talent that he reminds folks of David Pastrnak. Besides his silky-smooth hands and puck control, Lysell has received comparisons from his head coach in the WHL about his speed and explosiveness rivaling the likes of Connor McDavid, which shows the talent and upside this young man has.

 

Lysell is currently playing hockey for the Vancouver Giants of the Western Hockey league, where he has tallied 20 goals 31 assists for 51 points as he puts on a show every time he steps on the ice. The WHL regular season is set to run through April 17, which would leave seven games remaining in the regular season for the Bruins if they wish to call up the young winger to see what he can do on the big stage.

 

Besides his known skillset, what makes him even more exciting for the Bruins is that he’s a right-shot right-winger. This is precisely what the Bruins are looking for on that top line next to Patrice Bergeron and Brad Marchand. Who are two players that could help mentor and guide a 19-year-old into the league as they teach him the ropes, settle his nerves, and elevate his game to heights Lysell has never experienced.

Why a Promotion to Boston Actually Isn’t a Crazy Idea

This idea is not far-fetched at all as GM Don Sweeney is the one who initially brought up the idea during his post-trade deadline press conference as he uttered the words “He could Join either club, to tell you the honest truth,” referring to Lysell playing in Providence or Boston at the conclusion of the WHL season. This wouldn’t be the first time we saw the Bruins call up their top prospect at the beginning of a playoff run as we witnessed in 2017 during the Eastern Conference first-round series against Ottawa a young Charlie McAvoy made his NHL debut in game one of that series and never look back.

 

Sweeney is certainly not worried about the right winger’s skill set as he went on to include in the presser, “From a skill standpoint, talent standpoint, Fabian has a lot of things we’re excited about.” What is also encouraging about the situation is that this won’t be Lysell’s first time adjusting against playing grown men as he played 26 games in the Swedish Hockey League last year and knows the required adjustments needed to play at this level against older opponents.

 

Stay tuned and pay close attention in the coming weeks as Lysell’s WHL season ends. The possibility of promotion becomes more and more of a reality that Sweeney may not be able to resist showing everyone just what his top prospect is capable of doing.

[Brewin Flames]

Boston Bruins Sign Georgii Merkulov To Three-Year Entry-Level Contract

The 21-year-old forward led Ohio State with 20 goals this season

by Boston Bruins @NHLBruins / Boston Bruins

 10:11 AM

•  

 

BOSTON - Boston Bruins General Manager Don Sweeney announced today, April 9, that the team has signed forward Georgii Merkulov to a three-year entry-level contract beginning next season with an annual NHL cap hit of $925,000.

 

Merkulov, 21, spent the 2021-22 season at Ohio State University. The 5-foot-11, 181-pound forward appeared in 36 games with the Buckeyes, leading the team in scoring with 20 goals and 14 assists for 34 points with a plus-18 rating.

 

Prior to his freshman season at Ohio State, Merkulov spent two seasons in the USHL with the Youngstown Phantoms. The Ryazan, Russia native appeared in 74 games for the Phantoms, recording 20 goals and 53 assists for 73 points.

 

Merkulov will report to Providence on an ATO for the remainder of the 2021-22 AHL season.

[Brewin Flames]

Report: Boston Bruins Sign 2019 First Round Pick Johnny Beecher To ATO

•  APRIL 13, 2022
•  
• NHL

  

Rena Laverty

The Boston Bruins announced Wednesday the signing of 2019 first-round pick Johnny Beecher to an Amateur Tryout (ATO) for the remainder of the 2021-22 season. Beecher will play the remainder of the season with the Bruins’ American Hockey League affiliate Providence Bruins.

 

The 30th overall pick in the 2019 NHL Draft, Beecher just completed his third year with the University of Michigan. In 81 games with the Wolverines, the 6’3”, 210 pound forward scored 19 goals and had 39 assists. The Elmira, New York native, was a highly touted prospect and played two seasons for the United States National Development Team Program.

 

Beecher will report to Providence immediately. Meanwhile, Beecher’s agent and Don Sweeney will continue to work on an entry-level contract to be signed at a later date.

[Brewin Flames]

Three Bruins Prospects Debut in Providence Bruins’ Win

•  APRIL 17, 2022
•  

  

Photo: Boston Bruins

The Boston Bruins signed several college prospects to either amateur tryouts or entry-level deals as the college hockey season ended. Three newly signed pros debuted Saturday night for Bruins’ American Hockey League affiliate Providence Bruins. The game works provided a glimpse into what the Bruins saw in each of them.

The Providence Bruins defeated the Lehigh Valley Phantoms 3-2 in a shootout on Saturday night in Providence. But that was not the big story of the night. Three Bruins prospects made their debut, and Bruins fans were not disappointed. Georgii Merkulov, who just completed his freshman year at Ohio State University, stole the show. The 21-year-old winger, who was signed April 9th to a three-year entry-level contract by Boston, assisted on the first two goals and scored a nifty shootout goal that proved to be the game-winner. Merkulov displayed some offensive skills that helped produce 20 goals with the Buckeyes.

The Baby Bruins also welcomed 2019 first-round pick Johnny Beecher, into the fold. Beecher signed an Amateur Tryout (ATO) with Boston four days after Merkulov’s, following three seasons with the University of Michigan. The 30th overall pick in 2019 showed top-level speed for his big frame (6’3”, 210 pounds) and led the team in shots with four in the win.

And then there was goaltender Brandon Bussi from Western Michigan University, who signed a one-year entry-level on March 30th with the Bruins. The 6’5”, 220-pound netminder just completed three seasons with Western Michigan and led the team to their first NCAA tournament win this past season. In his first action with Providence, Bussi made 28 saves, including all three in the shootout, to earn his first professional win.

[Brewin Flames]

Bruins Prospect Profile: Mason Lohrei

•  JUNE 22, 2022
•  

  

Photo: NBC Sports

Photo Credit: NBC Sports/Getty Images

The Bruins are looking down the barrel of a rebuild that may start as early as this season. Their foundation is solid, and they already have three young stars that will hopefully fast-track them to being a contender again. Other rebuilding/retooling franchises aren’t lucky enough to start with a Pastrnak, McAvoy, and Swayman. Poor drafting in recent years has left them with one of the worst prospect pools in the NHL, but there are a few bright spots.

 

Fabian Lysell looks pretty promising, and although he is young, he shows the most promise of any of their forward prospects. Despite their bad drafting record over the last few years, they managed to get a steal in 2017 by picking up their future in goal; Jeremy Swayman. As for defenseman, recent picks like Vaakanainen, who didn’t work out, and Zboril, who has yet to prove himself, leave a lot to be desired. Mason Lohrei seems like he has more upside to me, despite being picked later than the other two.

Credit to EliteProspects.com

Lohrei was a standout for the Green Bay Gamblers two years ago, posting 59 points in just 48 games. Those stats are very good for a defenseman, and he managed to lead the team in scoring to boot. This year he transitioned to the NCAA, and he made it look easy. He finished the year at nearly a point per game with 29 points in 31 games and led the OSU Buckeyes in assists. Those stats are pretty impressive for a freshman defenseman, and I think he made the right choice for his development by committing to another year in college.

Credit to@BruinsNetwork on Twitter

His transition game is impressive, to say the least, and he draws comparisons in my eyes to a young Victor Hedman. That is a lofty comparison, to say the least, but he is already NHL-sized, standing 6’4 and 200 lbs. Now I’m not saying that he is going to win Norris trophies any time soon, but he is a big body who skates and handles the puck like a smaller defenseman. Eliteprospects.com had this to say about Lohrei prior to his draft in 2020, “Where Lohrei stood out was as a puck-carrier. He’s got a snappy wrist shot, with good form and an ability to generate a lot of power with very little movement, suggestive of a really strong upper body.”

Going back to OSU this season will give him a chance to show his chops, and he should raise his stock with the Bruins organization. With Owen Power heading to Buffalo and Luke Hughes potentially going to Jersey, there is a chance that Lohrei could prove himself to be the best defenseman in college hockey. The Bruins’ depth could use a large, highly skilled point-producing defenseman, and it looks like Lohrei could be that guy.

Credit to @OhioStateMHKY on Twitter

He is still a few years away right now, so let’s not give our hopes up too soon. He has, however, received a few accolades in his young career. This year he made the NCAA All-Rookie team, and last year he won the USHL Defenceman of the Year and was a First Team All-Star. Last year he also led the USHL in goals, assists, and points as a defenseman.

 

It’s very important to measure your expectations when it comes to a player like this, as nothing is guaranteed. Lohrei isn’t a high pick like a Makar or a Hedman, so the same expectations shouldn’t apply to him. In my eyes, he has the skills and promise to pop into the Bruins lineup as soon as two years from now. It’s hard to say what his ceiling is, as he hasn’t played against men in the AHL just yet. This coming year is going to show if this season was just a flash in the pan for him or if Mason Lohrei could be next in line for a roster spot with the Boston Bruins

 

 

[Brewin Flames]

Bruins prospect Mason Lohrei has unfinished business in college, but knows he’s closer to going pro

Matt Porter - 34m ago

 

 

Abig background presence at Bruins development camp, which concluded Friday, was Mason Lohrei, who is recovering from knee surgery.

© Jonathan Wiggs/Globe StaffMason Lohrei, shown at the Bruins' development camp in 2021, did not participate in this year's camp because he is recovering from knee surgery.

Lohrei, the Bruins’ second-round pick (58th overall) in the 2020 draft, is arguably Boston’s top prospect on defense. Though he wasn’t on the ice this week, he reconnected with his fellow Black and Gold hopefuls, and continued to strengthen his knee.

 

 

“I’m in a later phase now,” he said. “I start skating in a couple weeks here. Excited for that. Been itching for a while.”

 

The lanky 21-year-old, nearly 6-foot-5 and 200 pounds with a frame topped by a shock of auburn hair, will return to Ohio State after a glittering debut that had the Bruins wondering how long it would be until he could help the left side of their defensive unit.

 

Lohrei, who led USHL defensemen in scoring (19-40–59) in 2020-21, his second year in that league, brought his offensive game to campus in Columbus. Skating on the top power play unit, the freshman ranked fifth among NCAA defensemen in points per game (4-25–29 in 31 games).

 

The defensemen ahead of him on that list included three top-five picks (Ottawa’s Jake Sanderson, fifth in 2020; Buffalo’s Owen Power, first in 2021; and New Jersey’s Luke Hughes, fourth in 2021) and a 24-year-old (Tampa prospect Nick Perbix).

 

Lohrei could turn pro and try his hand in Providence this fall, but the Bruins as an organization have a lot of left-shot defensemen (nine, including unsigned restricted free agent Jack Ahcan) and Lohrei believes he left something on the dining hall table.

 

“Going back and continuing to work on my game and get stronger, quicker, work on my defending, little details like that is really intriguing to me,” he said. “And then I grew up dreaming of winning a national championship. Go back and try to accomplish that this year.”

 

How far away does he think he is from the NHL?

 

“I try not to focus on that stuff too much, but it’s exciting,” he said. “You kind of feel yourself getting closer. It’s every kid’s dream to play in the NHL. Hopefully make that jump sooner than later.”

 

Bruins director of player development Jamie Langenbrunner sees a player who moves well for his size, creates plays and distributes the puck.

[Brewin Flames]

Prospect Pool Overview: Boston Bruins

Tony Ferrari - Yesterday 2:55 PM

 

Your prospect pool can wind up being fairly bleak when you’re a competitive team for a couple of decades. Tony Ferrari looks at the Boston Bruins' future, and which players you need to keep an eye on.

 

Your prospect pool can wind up being fairly bleak when you’re a competitive team for much of the last 15 years. 

 

 

 

It’s hard to draft high-end prospects when you are drafting towards the end of round one, and that’s in years when you don’t trade your first-round pick away. When you draft quality prospects, you often trade them away for immediate help. 

This is the predicament that the Bruins find themselves in.

 

The Bruins’ prospect pool isn’t devoid of talent by any means, but they do lack a star or two that give them high hopes for the future after the current core moves on. Fabian Lysell and Brett Harrison have talent and skill, projecting as NHL top-six forwards if their ceilings are met. Lysell, in particular, could provide great after going 21st overall at the 2021 NHL draft.

 

Center John Beecher and stout defender Mason Lohrei could find themselves as middle-of-the-lineup contributors who play the Bruins’ brand of hockey. Matthew Poitras and Cole Spicer are two skilled forwards who were added at the draft and could be contributors in the long run. Jeremy Swayman, 23, looks to be the future in net, but Reid Dyck and Brandon Bussi look like possible NHLers down the road in goal, too.

 

The top-end talent isn’t there but the Bruins are trying to win now - as has been the case for the last 15 years - so it’s not shocking that their pipeline is a bit less impressive than some others around the league.

 

2022 NHL Draft Class

 

Round 2 (54 Overall) - Matthew Poitras, C, Guelph Storm [OHL]

Round 4 (117 Overall) - Cole Spicer, C, U.S. National Development Team [USHL]

Round 4 (119 Overall) - Dans Ločmelis, C, Lulea HF Jr. [J20 Nationell]

Round 5 (132 Overall) - Frederic Brunet, D, Rimouski Oceanic [QMJHL]

Round 6 (183 Overall) - Reid Dyck, G, Swift Current Broncos [WHL]

Round 7 (200 Overall) - Jackson Edward, D, London Knights [OHL]

 

Boston's 2022 NHL draft was eventful in quantity but lacked a first-round pick after trading it to Anaheim for defenseman Hampus Lindholm. With only one pick (54th overall) before the fourth round, the Bruins were throwing a lot of darts at the board in the mid-late rounds.

 

In the second round, The Bruins started their draft off taking high-energy forward Matthew Poitras from the OHL’s Guelph Storm. An aggressive forechecker with some crafty puck theft ability and some shiftiness once he gets the puck on his stick, Poitras is a good distributor and a good shooter who doesn’t use his shot enough.

 

His upside is a question, but some pro-level tendencies could lead to a solid middle-six career in the NHL.

 

Cole Spicer built his game around being a sound defensive forward with the USNTDP who can chip in offensively when given the opportunity to. Spicer will finish a check and work hard to get the puck back for his squad. Dans Ločmelis is in the same mold as a forward who uses positioning and intelligent habits at both ends of the ice to excel. 

 

Dyck is an interesting swing on a goaltender with some nice athleticism. Dyck showed an ability to stand out in big moments at times this year and even though his numbers with Swift Current aren’t phenomenal, he has the size and tools that have been on display more than enough to justify his selection.

 

Strengths

The Bruins have one of the weaker prospect pools as a whole in the NHL but they do boast some very good wingers. Fabian Lysell is one of the more speed-driven prospects in hockey with the ability to blaze by opponents and attack on the rush with the best of prospects in the game. His hands are beginning to catch up to his feet and he’s flashed absolute offensive brilliance at times. He also plays with vigor in all three zones as a high-effort defensive presence in his own zone that could be a well-above-average defensive forward with some coaching.

 

Brett Harrison has played both center and on the wing, but could be a very high-end finisher at the NHL level as a winger. His pace could be an issue if asked to drive play, but his shot is legit, and he has some very good passing ability in the offensive zone. Smart and skilled, Harrison could provide the quality secondary scoring that the best Bruins teams are known for at the next level. Add in some intriguing depth-scoring wingers such as Jakub Lauko, Oskar Steen, and possible Matthew Poitras if he moves from center ice and the Bruins’ wing depth looks solid moving forward.

Weaknesses

Boston could use some help just on the backend, but they do a decent job of developing blueliners. Down the middle, the Bruins have struggled to find answers beyond their long-time stalwart Patrice Bergeron, specifically in terms of home-grown talent. John Beecher looks promising and screams “Boston Bruin” stylistically but projects as a third-line center at the NHL level unless he can really boost his offensive production. He showed well at the AHL level, but his NCAA track record wasn’t anything to ride home about. Beyond the Michigan product, there are a lot of question marks.

Next Man Up: RW Oskar Steen

The Bruins need cheap scoring depth thanks to being right up against the salary cap and Steen may wind up being the player to provide it. The 24-year-old Swede is an undersized skill player who could thrive in a top-nine role if given the opportunity as an offensive weapon. He is a playmaker by trade who can thread the needle after opening up space with his shiftiness on his feet through the offensive zone. The Bruins aren’t likely to give their top prospects a look this year as they are a year or two away from contributing at the NHL level so Steen could look to solidify his role on the NHL roster this year so that when those players arrive next year, he won’t have to worry about being the odd man out.

Prospect Depth Chart Notables

LW: Brett Harrison, Jakub Lauko

John Beecher, Matthew Poitras

RW: Fabian Lysell, Oskar Steen

LD: Mason Lohrei, Frédéric Brunet, Jack Ahcan

RD:Victor Berglund

G: Reid Dyck, Brandon Bussi

[Brewin Flames]

Brett Harrison has signed a three-year, entry-level contract with the Boston Bruins. 

Harrison produced 27 goals and 61 points in 65 games for the OHL's Oshawa Generals during the 2021-22 season. The Bruins selected the 19-year-old forward in the third round (85th overall) of the 2021 NHL Entry Draft.

[Brewin Flames]

Bruins’ Defensive Prospect Shining In QMJHL

•  FEBRUARY 14, 2023

Photo: Le Droit

The Boston Bruins’ 2022 NHL Draft featured three centers as the team looks ahead to rebuild the position as soon as next season. Two of the three, second-round pick Matthew Poitras and fourth-pick Dans Locmelis, are having stellar seasons in the Ontario Hockey League and Swedish League, respectively. The organization could always use a good offensive defenseman and might have hit on one in the fifth round last June.

 

Nineteen-year-old blue liner Fredric Brunet was selected with the 132nd overall pick by Boston and is playing in his third full season in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League with the Victoriaville Tigres. Brunet has shown a steady offensive improvement during his time in the QMJHL, and this season is shining. This past week Brunet was selected as the QMJHL Player Of The Week after registering one goal and five assists as the Tigres extended their winning streak to four, and Brunet’s point streak reached nine games.

 

Acquired by the Tigres from the Rimouski Oceanic during the holiday trade period, Brunet currently leads all QMJHL defensemen with 56 points in 47 games. But the 6-foot-3, 190-pound defenseman has improved his puck-moving and offensive skill from last season when the Quebec native totaled 46 points. His solid work in all three zones grabbed the attention of the Boston Bruins, who selected him in the fifth round of the 2022 NHL Entry Draft.

 

Brunet has had a connection to one specific Bruins player as he has worked out in the off-season with Bruins captain Patrice Bergeron. Although Brunet grew up just a couple of miles from Montreal’s Bell Centre, Brunet was very excited to be drafted by Boston because of his relationship with Bergeron. In 2021, Brunet moved to Quebec City and began working out at the University of Laval, where Bergeron was training. Now, Brunet is developing a path to the NHL and becoming an intriguing prospect in the Bruins’ system.

 

Since the trade to Victoriaville, Brunet has had 22 points in 14 games and is becoming one of the top defensemen in the league. His defensive work is also improving, with a plus-9 rating this season. Brunet continues to climb the charts of Bruins prospects and has the size and offensive prowess to be an NHL defenseman at some point. Look for Frederic Brunet to compete this summer at Bruins Development Camp and be a player to watch for the Boston Bruins down the road.

[Brewin Flames]

3 Providence Bruins to Watch in the AHL Playoffs

April 28, 2023 by Scott Roche

All eyes will be in Sunrise, Florida Friday night (April 28) with the Boston Bruins and Florida Panthers playing Game 6 of their Eastern Conference first-round series with the Bruins leading 3-2. In Rhode Island, the Providence Bruins will begin their own postseason in the American Hockey League (AHL) playoffs against the Hartford Wolf Pack in a best-of-five second-round series.

 

As Providence begins its quest for the Calder Cup, here are three players to keep an eye on as they begin their postseason against the New York Rangers AHL affiliate.

Fabian Lysell

There were high expectations at the beginning of the season for Fabian Lysell and his first full pro season after a strong and impressive 2021-22 season with the Vancouver Giants in the Western Hockey League (WHL). He had 22 goals and 40 assists with the Giants in 55 regular season games, then tallied four goals and 17 assists in 12 postseason games.

Fabian Lysell, Boston Bruins (Amy Irvin / The Hockey Writers)

This season with Providence, he battled illnesses and injuries, but still managed 14 goals and 23 assists in 55 games. He showed flashes of his skill set this season by making some highlight reel passes while using his quick hard shot to find the back of the net. It was possible that Boston general manager (GM) Don Sweeney could have traded the 21st overall pick in the 2021 Entry Draft in a deal to acquire a big name at the trade deadline, but he held onto him and now Lysell gets his first professional taste of the playoffs. There will be a lot of eyes on him in the next couple of weeks with an eye towards next season in Boston.

Brandon Bussi

Brandon Bussi was in Boston as the third goalie behind Linus Ullmark and Jeremy Swayman on an emergency basis, but has since returned to Providence. Signed as an undrafted free agent following his senior season at Western Michigan University in March of 2022, he has taken advantage of the opportunity in his first full AHL season.

 

Bussi went 22-5-4 this season with a 2.40 goals against average (GAA) and a .924 save percentage (SV%), splitting time with Kyle Keyser. He was voted team MVP this season after finishing first in the AHL in save percentage and being named an Atlantic Division All-Star in February. Keyser finished 13-6-2 with a 2.79 GAA and a .900 SV%.

 

If there’s one area the Bruins are stockpiling young depth, it’s in goal. Reid Dyck, selected 183 overall in the 2022 Entry Draft, recently joined the P-Bruins in a practice and Philip Svedebäck completed a strong freshman season at Providence College. Once Ullmark is gone in Boston and Swayman assumes the crease full-time, the Bruins should have a number of NHL-ready backups in a couple of seasons.

Georgii Merkulov

Of all the prospects in Providence this season, Georgii Merkulov has been the most intriguing one for coach Ryan Mougenel. Like Bussi, Merkulov was signed as an undrafted free agent out of Ohio State in March of 2022, he came with a strong offensive skill set and it was on display in his first full pro season.

 

 

---

He tallied 24 goals and 14 assists for the Buckeyes in 2021-22 before signing with the Bruins, then this season, the 22-year-old had 24 goals and 31 assists for Providence. The 5-foot-10, 163-pound left wing has an impressive skill set, gets to the front of the net, and uses his hard quick shot to beat opposing goalies.

 

What happens with Boston next season remains to be seen with the bottom six as there are a lot of current players whose contracts are up following this season. Sweeney Could attempt to sign some of them or look toward players like Merkulov who carries a $925,000 cap hit to fill in some of those spots. It’s too bad that the Bruins didn’t give him an opportunity this season in Boston as he earned one with his strong first professional season.

 

Any postseason experience at any level is going to be beneficial to the P-Bruins as there is going to be some roster turnover in Boston next season, which could open the door for some of them to make the jump to the NHL. Like Boston, Providence is hoping to carry over its strong regular season to the playoffs.

[Brewin Flames]

Bruins Need To Sign This Promising Prospect By June 1

•  MAY 24, 2023

 

The Boston Bruins have been rebuilding a barren prospect pool in the last few seasons, and some of these young players are beginning to blossom into potential NHL players. Fabian Lysell, Georgii Merkulov, Mason Lohrei, and goaltender Brandon Bussi could be called on to assume roles on the Bruins roster as early as next season. Other prospects, Brett Harrison, Frederic Brunet, and Dans Locmelis, made huge strides in their development during the 2022-23 season. The future is looking much brighter, which might not say a ton, but it’s a start.

 

Another former Bruins draft pick is progressing very well in the Liiga League in Finland. The Bruins drafted center Matias Mantykivi in the sixth round in 2019 as a project who had good offensive attributes. The Lappeenranta, Finland native totaled just six points in 42 games in 2019-20 for SaiPa, then just nine points in 43 games the following season. In 2021-22, Mantykivi joined Ilves and flourished, registering 31 points and then 33 points this last season.

The 5-foot-11, 165-pound center had a terrific playoff with 12 points in 12 games. Mantykivi quickly rose up the charts in the Bruins system and caught the eye of scouts. The rights to the unsigned forward expire on June 1, and General Manager Don Sweeney will have to decide whether to sign the young center to an entry-level deal without a lot of wiggle room to take on salary with cap restrictions surrounding the organization.

McKeen’s annual report was released with their top-five drafted Europeans, and Mantykivi was on the honorable mention list. As Dominic Tiano points out, Mantykivi’s agent is former Bruins nemesis Claude Lemieux who is also the agent for Bruins defenseman Hampus Lindholm.

Report: Liverpool ready to activate...

So now we are a week away from a decision on re-signing Matias Mantykivi or allowing him to become an unrestricted free agent. If the Bruins want to sign him, the organization will have to shed some contracts to do so. There is also the fact that the Bruins need to develop young centers, with Merkulov and Matthew Poitras already in the mix. If the Bruins can not sign Mantykivi, he should not be unsigned for long.

[Brewin Flames]

Boston Bruins Top 10 Prospects for 2023 Offseason

June 21, 2023 by Scott Roche

It’s been said before and it’ll be said again, the Boston Bruins don’t have one of the top prospect pools in the NHL. They rank near the bottom, some of which can be traced back to trading away their first-round picks at various trade deadlines under general manager (GM) Don Sweeney. The cupboard is not bare, however, it could be considered a top-heavy pool.

---

What does that pool look like? With the 2022-23 NHL season over, let’s take a look at who the Bruins’ top 10 prospects are ahead of the 2023 NHL Entry Draft on June 28 and 29 in Nashville.

10. Trevor Kuntar

Selected in the third round, 89th overall in the 2020 Entry Draft, Trevor Kuntar originally was going to attend Harvard University, but when they canceled sports for the 2020-21 season because of the coronavirus pandemic, he pivoted across the city of Boston to Boston College. After three years with the Eagles, Kuntar left after his junior season and signed his entry-level deal in March.

This season, he played in the top six for BC and had 13 goals and 16 assists. The 6-foot-0, 195-pound New York native finished his collegiate career with 28 goals and 31 assists. As his time in college progressed, his all-around game improved and he played in all situations. He will likely find himself with the Providence Bruins in the American Hockey League (AHL) next season, but he’s worth keeping an eye on the next couple of seasons.

9. Brandon Bussi

In March of 2022, the Bruins took a flyer on free agent goalie Brandon Bussi after his senior season at Western Michigan University came to an end. His first pro season in Providence turned a lot of heads and he is someone who could turn into a sleeper signing by Sweeney.

Brandon Bussi, Boston Bruins (Amy Irvin / The Hockey Writers)

After winning three of his five starts after signing last season, he went 22-5-4 with a 2.40 goals against average (GAA) and a .924 save percentage (SV%). He made the Atlantic Division AHL All-Star Game and gave the Bruins’ front office an interesting scenario. Do the Bruins believe in him after one season to count on him as a backup next season in Boston if they decide to trade Linus Ullmark? Unlikely, but you never know what can happen this summer. On June 20, the Bruins signed Bussi to a one-year, two-way contract with an NHL cap hit of $775,000.

8. Riley Duran

In the sixth round of the 2020 Draft, the Bruins selected Riley Duran, and through his first two seasons at Providence College, the Boston native is looking like someone who could be a late-round steal. In 38 games in 2021-22, the center had 10 goals and nine assists as a freshman before playing for the United States in the 2022 World Junior Championships over the summer where he made a name for himself with two goals and three assists, and a plus/minus of plus-5 on the fourth line.

 

---

He returned with the momentum from the WJC to Providence and in 29 games, the 6-foot-2, 182-pound had eight goals and 12 assists, good enough to finish tied for fourth with points for the Friars last season. Playing in all situations for coach Nate Leaman, Duran will return to Providence for his junior year in the fall, which is a big one for him in terms of development.

7. Dans Locmelis

One of the lesser-named Bruins’ prospects is Dans Locmelis, but the 119th overall pick in the 2022 Draft is quickly and quietly climbing the ranks. In 44 games for Lulea HF in the Swedish Hockey League (SHL), he had a breakout season with 25 goals and 34 assists. For the second consecutive season, he played for Latvia at the World Junior Championships and made an impact on the big stage playing a physical style that fits the Bruins mold.

In 2022, he had a goal and an assist, but at the 2023 WJC, the dynamic forward had three goals in six games. The 6-foot-0, 170-pound center will attend the University of Massachusetts at Amherst this season and it gives the Boston front office an opportunity to see him up close.

6. John Beecher

Next season, the Bruins front office and coach Jim Montgomery would like to add some youth into the lineup and John Beecher has been knocking on the door of an NHL spot. His time in 2022-23 could be what lands him a shot in Boston.

John Beecher, Boston Bruins (Amy Irvin / The Hockey Writers)

Beecher just completed his first pro season with the P-Bruins with nine goals and 14 assists. The former University of Michigan standout is a player that is good at even strength, but he is also a penalty killer, and at 6-foot-3, his long reach can frustrate opponents. Selected 30th overall in the first round of the 2019 Draft, Beecher is someone who will have a lot of eyes on him in training camp in September.

5. Brett Harrison

Since drafting Brett Harrison in the third round, 85th overall in the 2021 Draft, it is looking like the Bruins are getting a steal in that draft. In 2021-22 for the Oshawa Generals in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), he had 27 goals and 34 assists in 65 games. This past season, he improved and turned into one of the more dangerous scorers in the OHL.

He spent the first half of the season with the Generals and had 16 goals and 17 assists, then was traded in January to the Windsor Spitfires and had 18 goals and 18 assists for a combined 69 points. Windsor also picked up Shane Wright, the fourth overall pick by the Seattle Kraken in the 2022 Draft and they combined to form a dangerous and prolific top line for the Spitfires. Windsor was upset in the first round of the playoffs, but Harrison continued to show his offensive ability which has a high ceiling and a skill set that is better than a third-round selection.

 

4. Georgii Merkulov

After his freshman season at Ohio State, Georgii Merkulov signed a free-agent contract with the Bruins. Not much was known about the undrafted forward except his 20 goals and 34 assists in one season for the Buckeyes. An older prospect already at 22 years old, he was the top offensive player for the P-Bruins with 24 goals and 31 assists this season, which earned him Rookie of the Year honors.

This season, some players were called from Providence to Boston to fill in for injured players, but Merkulov was not one of them. Jakub Lauko and Joona Koppanen got the calls, but Merkulov never heard his name called. That could be a different next season and depending on what happens to the roster in Boston this season, the talented center could be in the mix for a roster spot in 2023-24.

3. Matthew Poitras

Locmelis is a rising prospect from last season’s draft, but Matthew Poitras is turning into the best pick from last summer in Montreal. Needing to restock their center with youth, Sweeney did that at the draft, and his first selection of the draft in the second round, 54th overall, is turning into a promising talent.

Matthew Poitras, Guelph Storm (Gar Fitzgerald / Guelph Storm)

In 2021-22, he got his feet wet in the OHL with the Guelph Storm with 21 goals and 29 assists in 68 games, but he took his game to another level this season. In 63 regular season games, he had 16 goals and 79 assists, then had two goals and six points in the postseason. The 5-foot-11, 176-pound Ontario native has great vision on the ice, plays with a chip on his shoulder, and is quickly turning into one of the Bruins’ top center prospects.

2. Fabian Lysell

Since being drafted 21st overall in the 2021 Draft, Fabian Lysell and been the most talked about and a top prospect for the Black and Gold, but this season in his first full pro season in Providence, he did not perform as well as he would have hoped, but there is still a lot to like about his game.

In 54 AHL games this season, he battled injuries and illnesses that forced him to miss some time, but he still finished with 14 goals and 23 assists. Sweeney was active at the trade deadline in March and it would not have been surprising to see him have moved Lysell in order to complete a deal, but he held onto him, instead moving the Bruins’ next couple of first-round picks. Like some of his other Providence teammates from this season, Lysell will have an opportunity in training camp to make the case for a bottom-six roster spot next season.

1. Mason Lohrei

Lysell has been at the top of this list, but this season, Mason Lohrei, the Bruins’ top defensive prospect moved passed him on this list heading into the 2023 offseason. Another second-round pick by Sweeney, 58th overall in the 2020 Draft, he signed his entry-level contract following his junior season at Ohio State in March and finished out the season in Providence. An offensive defenseman, he had four goals and 28 assists for the Buckeyes this season.

Bruins prospect Mason Lohrei with the Green Bay Gamblers (Jenae Anderson / The Hockey Writers)

A left-shot, the Bruins already have an abundance of left-shot blueliners for next season, but it’s very likely some will be on the move this offseason and open some spots. Whoever Sweeney decides to move remains to be seen, but the 6-foot-4 Lohrei is knocking on the door of an NHL spot. He will be in the mix next season and it wouldn’t be surprising to see him in Boston at some point next season.

[Brewin Flames]

2023-24 NHL Prospect Pool Breakdown: Boston Bruins

Steven Ellis

Jul 19, 2023

 

 

 

Credit: (Photo by Steven Ellis)

Let’s be frank: Boston has one of the worst prospect pools in the NHL.

 

That’s the price you pay to stay competitive, and the Bruins have been among the NHL’s best teams for well over a decade. Not many teams can start and end a decade playing in the Stanley Cup final, but that’s exactly what the Bruins did in 2011 and 2019.

 

That sustained level of competitive play meant moving draft picks and selecting low when they didn’t. That’s why the Bruins have one of the worst prospect pools. That’ll change once the team starts to drop off, but if the Bruins have their way, that won’t be for a few years.

 

Fabian Lysell and John Beecher are the only first-rounders on this list, with the team moving most of their first-round picks in recent years. In fact, they’ve only had four picks total in the top 85 over the past four years. This is a team that understands what it takes to remain competitive, and that often means depleting resources.

 

Lysell is still the top prospect in the system, even if the past year wasn’t a huge success.

 

The 2022-23 season saw Matthew Poitras and Brett Harrison post tremendous major junior seasons, while Mason Lohrei finished off a tremendous two-year run at Ohio State. And then there are the two undrafted free-agent signings, Brandon Bussi and Georgii Merkulov, who took huge strides this year. The emergence of both in Providence was an excellent sign.

 

Biggest Strength

What this group lacks in skill, they gain back in hard-working, energetic skaters. And you need guys like that – you can’t win with 12 shoot-first, worry-later scoring options out there. The Bruins have an abundance of players that bring skill, grit and speed in depth positions, including some who aren’t far away from stepping into full-time roles.

Biggest Weakness

There isn’t a real game-breaker in the pool. Nobody appears to be a high-impact first-liner, top-pairing defender or a top-flight goaltender. I had mixed opinions on Lysell’s high-end potential – he didn’t have a great year, but I still think he’s a capable middle-six player. After that, Lohrei looks solid, but I don’t think we’re going to see him play 18-plus minutes at the next level.TOP 10 PROSPECTS

 

Grade: D

1. Fabian Lysell, RW, 20 (Providence, AHL)

Drafted: No. 21, first round in 2021

Lysell was a divisive prospect during his draft year, with many wondering what his NHL future would look like. He played his first season in the AHL with Providence but didn’t light things on fire with just 14 goals and 37 points in 54 games. Mix in an awful world junior performance and Lysell definitely didn’t do himself many favors. The skill is still there, but he’ll need to take a big step forward with Providence in 2023-24. That being said, he’s still young, so it’s all about putting everything together.

2. Mason Lohrei, D, 22 (Providence, AHL)

Drafted: No. 58, second round in 2020

There’s an argument to be made that Lohrei is the best prospect in the system right now. The 22-year-old was a bit of a surprise to go at No. 58 at the 2020 draft, especially since the NHL’s Central Scouting Service had him as the 132nd-ranked North American skater. But ever since, Lohrei has looked like an absolute gem, putting up fantastic numbers during his two-year tenure at Ohio State before turning pro late last season. Lohrei got his first taste of professional hockey to close out the year, and now he’s ready to take his career up another step.

 

3. Matthew Poitras, C, 19 (Guelph, OHL)

Drafted: No. 54, second round in 2022

Poitras was a bit of a revelation last season, recording 79 assists (second in the OHL) and 95 points to lead Guelph in scoring. Poitras is among the most effective passers in major junior, and all he’s missing is a few extra goals himself. Poitras projects to be a solid middle-six playmaker in the NHL, which would be an excellent value find after the team selected Poitras later in the second round in 2022.

4. Georgii Merkulov, C, 22 (Providence, AHL)

Undrafted free agent signing, 2022

What a find Merkulov was. Undrafted to the NHL, Merkulov had 24 goals and 55 points in his first season of pro hockey. The 22-year-old has done nothing but excel since coming over to North America in 2019-20, but nobody could have expected the offensive explosion this past season in Providence. It was interesting that Merkulov wasn’t part of the call-up group this year, but that should change in 2023-24 and beyond as the team looks to the post-Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci era.

5. Dans Locmelis, C, 19 (Univ. of Massachusetts, NCAA)

Drafted: No. 119, fourth round in 2022

Locmelis is another great value find, coming off a fantastic season for the 119th pick from 2022. The Latvian-born center had 59 points in 44 games with Lulea’s U-20 squad, but it was his play at the IIHF World Championship in May that really caught everyone’s attention. He had just three points, but they came in the final three games, including a goal that helped lead Latvia to its first-ever appearance in the final four. The NCAA will be a significant change for Locmelis, but he’s ready for the challenge.

 

6. Jakub Lauko, LW, 23 (Boston Bruins)

Drafted: No. 77, third round in 2018

If Lauko is going to the NHL, it has to be soon. He finally got into his first NHL action this year with seven points in 23 games, giving the team a decent, hard-working depth piece with good straight-line speed. Offensively, that’s where Lauko falls flat. He’s a strong forward that can land hits, but he isn’t more than a 15-point player in the NHL. Still, you need guys that work their tail off like Lauko.

7. John Beecher, C/LW, 22 (Providence, AHL)

Drafted: No. 30, first-round in 2019

A big, 6-foot-3 forward, Beecher turned pro last year and put up a respectable 23 points in 61 games. When it comes to Beecher, though, it’s not the offense you’re looking for. He’s a good skater, tough to take the puck off of and reads the ice well, while also being defensively responsible. If the team is looking to have more of a youth presence, Beecher could be a solid bottom-six option.

 

8. Brandon Bussi, G, 25 (Providence, AHL)

Undrafted free agent signing, 2022

It’s hard to classify Bussi as a prospect given his age. But the 25-year-old was one of the best goaltenders in his first year of pro hockey, going 22-5-4 with a .924 save percentage in 32 games. An undrafted free agent signing last year, Bussi was named to the AHL’s all-rookie team, beating out some younger competition. The Bruins have a busy pipeline with Linus Ullmark and Jeremy Swayman, but Bussi is ready for a call-up if needed.

9. Frederic Brunet, D, 19 (Victoriaville, QMJHL)

Drafted: No. 132, fifth round in 2022

A fifth-round pick in 2022, Brunet had one heck of a campaign with 73 points this year between Rimouski and Victoriaville. Brunet was an overage prospect when he was taken, but his development over the past two years alone looks promising. Brunet very well could be one of the better steals, but his defensive zone play still needs improvement.

10. Brett Harrison, C, 20 (Providence, AHL)

Drafted: No. 85, third round in 2021

Harrison is ready to go pro in 2023-24 after finishing off his OHL career with the Windsor Spitfires. Harrison never exploded offensively in major junior, but he brings a solid mix of hockey sense and physicality that’ll allow him to play some NHL games. Harrison could be a solid complementary scorer one day, but adjusting to life in the AHL is the next stop in his journey.