By: Craig Eagles | Follow Me On Twitter @Eags37
It would appear that Adam McQuaid could be returning to the Boston Bruins? Veteran reporter and hockey lifer Mark Divver reported that McQuaid has been in attendance for the Providence Bruins several times this week. One could speculate that McQuaid’s presence is certainly not by coincidence. The longtime Bruin and 2011 Stanley Cup Champion announced his retirement from the NHL on January 16, 2021, after a 14-year professional career that saw the hard-nosed stay-at-home defender play in 580 career NHL games. The Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island product would be an excellent candidate for any role in player development given his path in the game, reputation, leadership, and character.
It’s undeniable, the 34-year-old played the game the right way and earned every ounce of success he experienced in the league. Adam McQuaid was the ultimate team-first guy, who always wore his heart on his sleeve and would do just about anything to win. Obviously, this is pure speculation, but the organization could definitely benefit by having McQuaid work with the team’s young defensive prospects. Player development in this era of the game is critical, especially when building from within. There’s no question McQuaid paid his dues coming up through the ranks. Nothing was taken for granted. The former second-round pick of the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2005 probably understands all too well that you can’t rush the developmental curve.
McQuaid played four seasons with the Sudbury Wolves of the Ontario Hockey League before playing two and half seasons in Providence before becoming an NHL regular. Just like the blueline of any NHL organization, there’s always room to add depth and experience when it comes to player development. Jamie Langenbrunner has done a fantastic job in his role with the Bruins in player development, as well as Chris Kelly, who was hired on July 18, 2019. One would assume that with so many young defenders in the organization, Don Sweeney and his staff could look to add McQuaid to solidify the Bruins backend.
Every organization in the National Hockey League continues to invest time and money into player development, and the Bruins are no different. Every organization understands the value and importance of development. Case in point, a few years back, the Calgary Flames hired former NHL enforcer Brian McGrattan and created a Player Assistance position. McGrattan works with all of the Flames prospects off the ice to prepare them for the rigors of the professional ranks and acts as a sounding board providing confidential counseling if and when needed.
Let’s face it Adam McQuaid would excel in any role within the organization, but his quiet, reserved personality and outstanding leadership skills definitely make him a perfect candidate for a similar position if the B’s choose to go in that direction. It’s clear the former Bruin possesses all the tools to be an extraordinary addition to the organization. For now, it’s pure speculation, but it sure would be great to see Adam McQuaid, the former player, but more importantly, the person returns home to the Black and Gold.
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