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Boston Bruins: Austin Czarnik Fighting For Roster Spot

By Andrew Thompson

Sep 26, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Bruins center Austin Czarnik (61) checks Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Markus Nutivaara (65) into the boards in the first period during a preseason hockey game at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 26, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Bruins center Austin Czarnik (61) checks Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Markus Nutivaara (65) into the boards in the first period during a preseason hockey game at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports /
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While the Boston Bruins lost last night to the Montreal Canadiens, there were some good things that came out of that game. Austin Czarnik was one of them.

The Boston Bruins are looking for a few young guns to fill out its roster for the B’s 2016-17 season. It was a big reason why the Bruins brought in two assistant coaches (former P-Bruins head coach Bruce Cassidy and former head of player development Jay Pandolfo) with extensive experience with training and developing young talent.

Right now, there are a few young players who are still part of the Bruins roster. Austin Czarnik is one of them.

The 23-year old Michigan native started his first full season with the Providence Bruins and by all accounts had a strong season. In his 68 AHL games last season, Czarnik tallied a very respectable 61 points (20 goals).  Now, Czarnik has put in two goals (including one shorthanded goal) and is battling with Denton Heinen for being the standout prospect in this preseason.

“It’s been a good camp so far, I can’t complain,” offered Czarnik about his current position. “It’s a lot of learning here, focusing on the d-zone. That’s one of the things I’ve been focusing on. But everything’s taking care of itself, so I’m excited to still be here.”

During last night’s game, Czarnik put in the third and final goal for the Bruins just twenty seconds into the final period of the game. Czarnik’s shot got past Montreal netminder Al Montoya to give the B’s a brief 3-2 lead.

Bruins bench boss Claude Julien has been pleased with Czarnik’s performance so far. Opening night is just eight days away, and he’s still part of the team. “He’s been good – that’s why he’s still here and still playing,” stated Julien of Czarnik’s preseason performance to date.  “To me, he did well and he’s giving himself a real good chance here. We’ve got a few games and over a week left before we start the season, we’ll see where we end up with that.

“But definitely happy with his play so far. No matter what he’s played well enough right now to be here.”

Next: Boston Bruins Rusty In 4-3 Loss To Habs

Czarnik could find himself as a bottom six forward on opening night if he continues to perform. He’d be a great part of the youth movement the fans have been promised.

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