Year-to-Date: 25 Games – 2 Goals – 4 Assists – 6 Points – 17 PIMs – Plus-12
There has been no bigger surprise for the Bruins this season than the emergence of Brandon Carlo. While it was clear that he was a talented prospect the second he was drafted, nobody could have projected him to have not only made his NHL debut at just 19-years-old but to have shined on the Bruins top-pairing in the process as well.
Carlo has been a lock on the Bruins top pairing this season alongside Chara when the captain’s been healthy. As it the case for every rookie, Carlo has seen his ups and downs. His most impressive trait, however, has been his ability to learn from mistakes and not lose morale throughout each game.
Without Chara in the lineup, Carlo has skated alongside Kevan Miller on the Bruins second defensive pairing. To his credit, he’s still looked good without Big Z helping him out. Still, it will be better for both Carlo and the Bruins when Chara can return to the lineup. His veteran experience cannot be underestimated in terms of helping the team, and the young defender.
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While Carlo technically isn’t a prospect anymore, he still deserves a spot on this list. His quick jump to the National Hockey League has been nothing short of amazing.