Let’s check out what’s brewing down in Providence.
The Boston Bruins aren’t the only professional hockey team ready to start a new season. Boston’s AHL affiliate, the Providence Bruins, begins play next weekend.
The Baby B’s open up Saturday, October 12 against Rochester. They play again on Sunday against Springfield.
Providence will start the season with one of the strongest squads in recent memory. The Bruins organization has done a great job drafting and developing young talent. And now, this young talent is ready to make its first impression.
Studnicka and Lauko steal the headlines
All eyes will be on Jack Studnicka and Jakub Lauko. Studnicka, a second round pick in 2017, embarks on his first full professional season. He projects to be a top six center for Boston, but he’ll start the year in Providence.
Studnicka had a solid preseason with Boston. Most fans will remember him scoring a goal off his face, but his offensive instincts stood out. He skates well and has a good shot, so hopefully he makes a big jump this year.
No prospect has fans excited like Jakub Lauko. Boston chose Lauko in the third round of the 2018 NHL Draft. He already looks like a steal. Lauko looked great this preseason against NHL competition. He demonstrated blazing speed and a strong shot.
More importantly, Lauzo didn’t hit the brakes after Boston sent him down to Providence. He scored two goals for Providence in a preseason tilt last Friday night.
Studnicka and Lauko’s presence in the lineup make Providence games even more worthwhile this season. But, the question remains: how long will they even be in Providence?