Boston Bruins defenseman Torey Krug plays every game like he has something to prove.
Torey Krug first made headlines with the Boston Bruins during the team’s cup run in 2013. The 5’9″ blueliner pleasantly surprised everyone with his bulldog-like tenacity and his four goal/six point performance. Since then, Torey Krug seems to play nearly every game like it’s his last.
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Torey Krug was back on the ice today as Bruins informal practices began at the B’s new practice arena in Brighton. The 25-year old blueliner is working hard to get back to 100 percent. While he’s watching the shoulder and taking it slow it for now, he still hopes to be back on the ice in time for opening night on October 13.
“Not really even using my shoulder shooting the puck,” said Krug to the assembled media. “I’m trying to avoid any crazy things out there and take it slow, day by day. We still have plenty of time before camp, so as it ramps up here I’ll probably do that as well.”
Overall, Krug is happy with his progress and believes he’ll be even better than he was last year. While his goal production was below expectations, he was in the top ten among defensemen in assists with 40.
“I have no concerns…I’ve been in great hands and working hard to get back to make sure I’m as strong as I was before – and probably even stronger now that we’re focused on it.”
Krug proved he could handle top-four minutes last season. Now he (and the rest of the Bruins blueline) want to prove that the B’s can recover from their disappointing finishes these last two seasons.
“We have pieces in here that maybe some don’t get too excited about,” said Krug about his feloow defensemen. “We know that we’re highly capable of taking on whatever’s thrown our way. I think we’ll see what happens.
“But the D-men are motivated to prove a lot of people wrong that are saying we’re not ready to compete to be a playoff team.”
If the Boston Bruins use Kevan Miller properly and Adam McQuaid can prove he can play top-four minutes, then Krug may indeed be right.
Torey Krug is also certainly excited to work again with his former coach in Providence, Bruce Cassidy. Cassidy was promoted to be Boston’s assistant coach after Don Sweeney let Doug Jarvis and Doug Houda go after last season.
“Personally, I’ve worked with Butch in Providence. One of my favorite coaches to play for…It’s very exciting for him to come in. He’ll help us with our transition game and moving the puck. He’s one of the smartest hockey coaches I’ve talked with. I’m excited to work with him and embrace that.”
Torey Krug is the best puck-moving defenseman the Bruins have right now. He’s also the Bruins #2 blueliner. He’s become a fan favorite due to his playing style, and his quick return would be a blessing to the B’s.