The Bruins look to add two more wins this weekend with games against the Blues and Rangers. Some players need to step up to make that happen.
The Boston Bruins started the season with an impressive 6-1-2 record in the first nine games. This is good for 14 points, which puts Boston in second place in the Atlantic Division.
The Bruins looks to continue this great start with a pair of weekend matchups.
On Saturday, Boston faces St. Louis for the first time since last year’s Cup Final loss. It’s safe to say this game will bring up some bad memories.
Then, the Bruins travel to New York to take on the new-look Rangers. The Rangers haven’t had the best opening to the season, but they’ll still be a challenge on the second night of a back-to-back.
Although the Bruins do look solid so far this season, there are some players who need to step up with some big weekends.
Matt Grzelcyk
Matt Grzelyck came into this season with high expectations after a strong year last year. He emerged as a possible top-four defenseman who can skate and move the puck.
Grzelyck, however, hasn’t really fit that bill so far this year.
He’s looked uncomfortable at times and seems to lack that quick first step. Grzelyck doesn’t look like the same impact player from last year.
Bruce Cassidy noticed this, and as a result Grzelyck’s ice time is low compared to last year. He current averages only 16:51 on ice per game; last year he averaged over 19 minutes.
One thing that could hold Grzelyck back is his spot in the lineup. He plays primarily on the third pairing with Connor Clifton. Clifton’s a decent young player, but he lacks the experience to truly make a difference out there.
It’s likely that Grzelyck would look a lot better next to Charlie McAvoy or Brandon Carlo. But, with Zdeno Chara and Torey Krug both above him on the depth chart, this isn’t realistic.
Maybe Kevan Miller can play next to Grzleyck when he comes back from injury. Miller is an experienced, physical player who will be a steadier presence alongside Grzleyck. This might make Grzleyck feel more comfortable moving the puck.
No matter his partner, Grzleyck needs to string a couple strong games together to prove his worth. This weekend presents a great opportunity.