Boston Bruins: Top 3 players who will breakout in 2021

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NEW YORK, NEW YORK – FEBRUARY 16: Matt Grzelcyk #48 of the Boston Bruins skates against the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden on February 16, 2020 in New York City. The Bruins defeated the Rangers 3-1. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images) /

1. Matt Grzelcyk could break out for the Boston Bruins in 2021.

Poised to take over top powerplay unit duties with Krug signing with the Blues, we could see great numbers from Matt Grzelcyk in 2021.

After having a very good third full season in the NHL in which he set career-highs in games played (68), goals (four), assists (17), and points (21), Grzelcyk seems destined to be even better this year.

Related Story. Grzelcyk Has an Opportunity to Replace Krug on Bruins Power Play. light

Along with manning the point of the Bruins’ top powerplay unit, Grizz seems likely to be given the responsibility of playing alongside Charlie McAvoy on the team’s top defensive pairing.

Even if Chara does return, it seems very unlikely he’ll be playing the minutes we’re used to him playing. Because of this, we could see Grzelcyk’s ice time jump up from around 18 minutes a game to 20+ minutes a game.

With the additional ice time from the first powerplay unit and the first defensive pairing, Grizz’s offensive production is bound to increase. His possession numbers show he has the ability to drive and control the play, which should result in points.

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I would not be surprised if we see Grzelcyk put up a season this year where he’s on pace for 35+ points in a normal 82-game schedule.

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