Nov 10 2011; Denver, CO, USA; New York Islanders left wing Jay Pandolfo (29) during the first period against the Colorado Avalanche at the Pepsi Center. The Avalanche defeated the Islanders 4-3. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
The Boston Bruins have invited Jay Pandolfo to their training camp for the 2012-13 season. Pandolfo last played for the New York Islanders in the 2011-12 season and made his career playing in New Jersey where he won 2 Stanley Cups in 1999-2000 and 2002-03. Pandolfo was a Selke Trophy finalist in 2006-07 and his style of play is comparable to that of former Bruin and long-time fan favorite P.J. Axelsson (1997 – 2009).
If Pandolfo is to sign with the Bruins after training camp, his role with the team will obviously be defensive. Playing on the Bruins penalty kill and being apart of the bottom 6 will probably be the perfect fit for Pandolfo and bringing in veteran leadership and Stanley Cup winning experience to a team already full of Stanley Cup winners will possibly be a big help for the team.
Pandolfo will definitely play well on the bottom 6 lines in Boston, and will probably gel great with fellow defensive minded centre Patrice Bergeron on the penalty kill. Pandolfo does have a wealth of playoff experience with the Devils, 2 Stanley Cup wins, 3 SC Final apperances, in 131 playoff contests he has scored 33 points, his career high coming in the 2003 run for the Devils logging 12 points in 24 games. Pandolfo also has played for coach Claude Julien when Julien coached the New Jersey Devils in the 2006-07 season putting up 27 points in 82 games under Claude. I don’t see there being any issue readjusting to Claude’s coaching system, and should make a great fit on the B’s, if he is signed. It will also solve the mystery behind who will serve as the third winger on the Kelly-Peverly line.