By: Declan Flavin | Follow me on Twitter / X @FlavinDeclan
It’s the last full week of the National Hockey League preseason, and a few looming questions remain for the Boston Bruins as they move forward. Early results from the first games offer a glimpse at both strengths and areas that need attention.
Offensively, the team has shown promise, scoring nine total goals in the last two preseason games, while the defense is settling in, though it could still be tighter in front of the net. Although the special teams unit continues to modify its zone entries on the power play, the stick work from the penalty kill unit has been solid so far. As for questions about individual players, there are still concerns that could use addressing over the final slate of preseason games.
Will Mason Lohrei hold things down defensively?
This upcoming season is a big one for Lohrei, with a focus squarely on his defensive game moving forward. The further question is whether he will prioritize it himself, as he has the size to play multiple styles of game.
His linemate, Charlie McAvoy, could use support after a devastating injury in international play, making it imperative for Lohrei’s career and his teammates that he puts things together. Simplifying his offensive game could help him transition more easily to a demanding defensive role. Both sides of the ice affect each other, and by making simple passes out of the zone or getting shots through to the goalie, Lohrei can emphasize more simple physicality if he stays mindful of the connection.
Will Matthew Poitras stay available enough?
With his 5’11”, 189-pound frame, you wonder if Poitras will ever withstand the brutality of the NHL forecheck. He has endured a constant wave of physicality from opponents, and it shows no sign of stopping anytime soon.
So far in preseason clashes, he hasn’t shown any noticeable change in either his response to hits or his ability to evade them. This relentless physicality will continue to take a toll on his standout traits, namely his above-average vision and passing. Poitras might have to be on a line with Tanner Jeannot to really drive home to opponents that they need to think twice before targeting him.
Will John Beecher show enough energy?
Beecher is having to answer for a disappointing last season, and you have to wonder whether he’ll be digging in every game. He’ll need to if he wants the Bruins to consistently see his skill set on film.
He is a versatile player, combining speed and size, but he needs to align with the organization’s approach to the modern NHL forecheck. Pressuring defenders as they try to exit the zone will be crucial for him to do so.
If he doesn’t show an urgency in doing this, it will hinder the traits he brings and could send him packing sooner rather than later.
We’re finally approaching crunch time for the preseason and the final roster, so only time will tell what shakes out. These nuances need to be addressed if these three players want to secure a consistent spot on the NHL roster.
The Bruins will look ahead to the Philadelphia Flyers, Washington Capitals and New York Rangers this week as they close the preseason. Look for the team to continue putting in work in these games, knowing that a new culture could use some early momentum. Hopefully, the players can answer these questions before it’s too late.
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