By: Andrew Bluestein | Follow Me on X / Twitter @adbblue
David Pastrnak is one of the hottest players in the NHL right now, having recently had a 17-game point streak snapped and was named the league’s first star of January. The Boston Bruins sniper had a slow start to the season by his standards but has since proven why he’s so valuable to the team. He might be playing the best hockey of his career.
He’s found chemistry with Morgan Geekie, who’s also been hot lately, and the two forwards are feeding off each other’s game. With the team’s recent struggles, it’s hard to imagine where they’d be without Pastrnak’s recent tear. He’s recorded 40 points in his last 23 games and has more than anyone in the league in the previous two months.
The Bruins have only won three games in their last ten, and scoring has been a huge problem. Pastrnak has put the team on his back by having a line of 34-48-82 on the season, ranking fifth in points and tied for fourth in goals. His play has put his name into the Hart trophy conversation.
The Bruins’ former first-rounder has been known as a power play specialist, but this season, he’s been dominant five-on-five, having the second-most points with 48. He’s also proven he can make other players better. Playing next to Geekie has resulted in his linemate reaching a new career high in goals with 22. Geekie struggled early in the season, finding himself a healthy scratch before being moved on a line with Pastrnak.
With GM Don Sweeney’s recent fire sale at the NHL trade deadline, it’s clear that the organization is turning the page. However, with 15 games left in the season, the Black and Gold are only two points out of the final wild-card spot. Making the playoffs is still on the table, and if they get in, Pastrnak will play a crucial role. Without him, the team wouldn’t even be near this situation, and they would be much further back in the standings.
Leave a Reply