It’s no secret that the Boston Bruins’ 2014-2015 season has been difficult. There have been multiple struggles both on and off the ice. From losing key players during the offseason to untimely injuries, this has been a trying season.
Having struggled to get points and maintain a positive conference standing, the Bruins needed a drastic change. Losing Kevan Miller for the season and David Krejci for a second extended injury recovery timeframe, the B’s organization made some last minute moves prior to the trade deadline to help turn the bad luck around. Acquiring Brett Connolly from the Tampa Bay Lightning was the move that most were excited about. He is a promising young player that was expected to fill a much needed roster spot. No one could foresee that an injury during his second practice would have him out for an extended time as well. More bad luck for the B’s!!
Puck Prose
To most of the fans’ – and possibly the organization’s – surprise, the key element for finishing off this season strong came from another unexpected trade. The Bruins made a smart move getting rid of Jordan Caron – who has contributed next to nothing since his first-round draft selection in 2009 – sending him to Colorado in exchange for veteran forward Maxime Talbot. This trade has so far proven to be the best decision Chiarelli has made in quite some time.
On and Off-Ice Leadership
“He’s a phenomenal player, he really fits in with this team really well. He brings so much energy to the table, he plays very physical and he makes a lot of really good plays.” Brad Marchand on Max Talbot
Over the past few seasons, the Boston Bruins have lost many of their veteran players who served as team-wide leaders. Andrew Ference, Shawn Thornton, Johnny Boychuk and Jerome Iginla all provided a much needed voice in the locker room to give the players that extra motivation needed to boost their game. Although they still have key on-ice leaders like Chara, Bergeron and Kelly, the Bruins have been searching for that extra voice of reason and support. This is exactly what they have gotten with the addition of Max Talbot.
Having played in the NHL since 2007, Talbot has the experience and personality needed to provide guidance, mentoring and overall leadership for the young – and veteran – players. Claude Julien noted his leadership skills, stating “That veteran leadership that you look for in this stretch is often overlooked, and he’ll fill that gap well.” His presence and contributions, even only for the past week, have not been lost on his teammates. Multiple have showed recognition for his leadership abilities and overall team-player attitude. A much needed attribute to the Bruins’ organization.
“He’s very versatile, he can do different things and I think one thing that’s going to be really important for us, is his personality in the locker room.” Torrey Krug on Max Talbot
Boost of Energy
It is quite apparent to anyone that has watched Talbot play that he loves the game. He shows his passion for hockey while on the ice, putting it all out there so that he can help lead his team to a victory. Although he has only played in a few games for the Bruins, it is hard to miss him on the ice. He is not afraid to make hits when needed, shoot the puck on goal and make key passes to produce points. Not to mention, he brings intensity, defensive-style play and positive outlook to the game.
Merlot Line is Back
Playing on the fourth line alongside Campbell and Paille has also given their game some new life. A once sinking fourth line has now increased both their defensive and offensive play and brought back the merlot line that has been a vital part of the Bruins team. In the three games that Max Talbot has played with the Bruins, Paille has notched two goals, increased his confidence and boosted his overall game. Having struggled all year, it is no coincidence that having a veteran leader like Talbot by his side has given Paille the much needed support to step-up his game.
Talbot has quickly proven that he is the missing element that the B’s have been searching for all year. His presence on the ice and in the locker room has boosted the Bruins performance, energy and confidence. Being in the final stretch of the season, adding Talbot to the roster couldn’t have come at a better time.