By: Declan Flavin | Follow me on Twitter / X @FlavinDeclan
During this season’s National Hockey League trade deadline, a defenseman like Mason Lohrei was mentioned frequently in trade rumors despite his exceptional puck-moving ability. A big reason why anyone was able to have those discussions is because of an up-and-comer like Frederic Brunet, who has shown signs of being a capable puck-mover himself.
The Boston Bruins can continue to have such depth now that Brunet has signed a two-year extension with the organization at an average annual value of $875,000. Management is surely pleased with such a low-risk deal for a player they have believed in from afar, and it will be interesting to see whether Brunet breaks camp next season as a possible NHL starter.
The Person
Even when Brunet made his NHL debut, it was clear that he was a hardworking kid with an honest disposition. Selected in the fifth round, he’s always had a chip on his shoulder, but the hard work he has put in has helped him ignore the evaluations of those outside the organization.
Bruins fans will easily root for him if he continues to build on the developmental momentum he’s established. He very much resembles the blue-collar work ethic of those scattered around the TD Garden arena.
The Fit
Brunet’s ability as a puck-mover is clearly a primary skill of his, but he’s also developed into a capable defender in front of his own net. His 11 goals and 17 assists, paired with a positive 13 plus-minus, serve as a solid representation of this.
Some might easily be tempted to draw comparisons to an early Matt Grzelcyk or Torey Krug, but keep in mind that Brunet is much taller and trends well as an NHL body. The Bruins organization has truly made the most of an underrated prospect with a capable physique, and it makes this situation all the more intriguing.
Other
The progress of Brunet’s game has shocked many fans and analysts, even to the point that some believe he should receive a call-up at some stage this season. It would make sense timing-wise, as budding prospects like James Hagens could potentially join the roster during the final weeks of the season as well.
Could you imagine adding a 6’3″ defenseman to the core the Bruins already have? It would certainly make the idea of a wild-card run all the more impactful and entertaining, with the prioritization of their own end being fulfilled exactly as management envisioned.
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