By: Declan Flavin | Follow me on Twitter / X @FlavinDeclan
It is time to evaluate a projected second line for the Boston Bruins, and this is where things become a bit more uncertain. A Pavel Zacha, Casey Mittelstadt, and Viktor Arvidsson combination still carries plenty of intrigue thanks to the blend of skill sets it offers. The dynamic lies in the presence of two playmakers —Zacha and Mittelstadt—alongside a high-motor forechecker in Arvidsson.
This trio may be well-suited to execute the up-tempo forecheck that General Manager Don Sweeney has emphasized. Still, the challenge for this group will likely come in the form of tough matchups against other teams’ second lines. That’s where the pressure will lie.
Zacha’s 2024–25 season included 14 goals and 33 assists while playing all 82 games. What remains a constant is his smart, dependable game—particularly his awareness and offensive creativity. His value tends to rise when he’s paired with teammates who can finish chances and stretch opposing defenses.
The question is whether Zacha himself can take a step forward as a finisher. If he does, this line’s offensive output could take off. At 28 years old, he’s still in a strong position to thrive in a more aggressive forechecking system, especially with the skill and structure the Bruins are aiming to build around him.
Mittelstadt’s 2024–25 season, split between the Buffalo Sabres and the Bruins, resulted in 15 goals and 25 assists. He brings the kind of offensive creativity needed to give the Bruins more variety in their attack. The question now is whether he can elevate his scoring touch in the year ahead.
Once selected eighth overall, Mittelstadt has always carried the potential to contribute in multiple ways. For now, the focus will be on his ability to support the forecheck and generate chances off the rush. His puck creativity adds a welcome dynamic after last season and should pair well with the structure and simplicity of an aggressive forechecking system.
Arvidsson recorded 15 goals and 12 assists last season with the Edmonton Oilers. His game is built on agility and relentless effort on the forecheck. For this line to truly succeed, he’ll need to sharpen his finishing touch and help drive consistent offensive pressure.
That said, Arvidsson brings the type of up-tempo style the Bruins have been missing. His presence adds much-needed pace to the lineup. With his nonstop motor, he can push his linemates into attack mode, create turnovers, and open up space for Zacha and Mittelstadt to operate.
Ultimately, this projected second line should bring a creative and energetic presence, but that won’t matter if they’re consistently outscored by opposing units. There is still potential for these players to grow in their finishing ability, though the trio’s unconventional makeup may present challenges in consistently fulfilling a second-line role.
As with any line, sustained forechecking pressure can change the outcome. If they begin to feed off Arvidsson’s pace and generate momentum, the scoring chances will come. The key will be translating their energy and skill into meaningful production on the scoreboard.
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