Boston Bruins: Jakub Zboril is proving his value in the NHL

Over the years, Jakub Zboril has been one of the Boston Bruins‘ most-watched prospects. The Czech native was selected by  Boston with the 13th pick in the 2015 NHL draft. Entering 2021, Zboril had only appeared in two NHL games, but the pressure was mounting for him to make an impact. After Zdeno Chara and Torey Krug’s departures in the offseason, a spot opened up for Zbroil. So far, in 2021, the former first-round pick has taken advantage of the opportunity.

In 16 games this season, the Bruins defenseman has four assists. Although Zboril has yet to score a goal, he does have a point in two straight games. He has also attempted 36 shots and has one point on the powerplay. Zboril is not lighting up the stat sheet, but he is contributing in the offensive zone.

So far this season, Zboril has also been solid defensively. He has landed 27 hits and is averaging 17:31 ice time a game. The B’s rookie has shown that he isn’t afraid of sacrificing his body as he has blocked 12 shots. In his first extended look in the NHL, he has held his own and been one of the Bruins’ most consistent players.

Additionally, Zboril has the second-most points among Bruins defensemen this season. Only Charlie McAvoy has more with 13. While the Bruins have battled injuries of late, Zboril has stayed relatively healthy and only missed two games this season.

Over the last week, the Bruins have struggled as their defensemen have been hit hard by injuries. After a dominating win at Lake Tahoe, Boston has been outscored 13-4 in their last two games. The Bruins offense has struggled to find the back of the net, and the Bruins defensemen have made some costly mistakes with the puck.

While Zboril has not been exempt from those struggles, he has shown a lot of positive signs this season. He has been confident with the puck and has been effective on the powerplay. The 24-year-old has spent most of his time on the Bruins’ second defensive pairing and fit in well.

As Boston tries to get back on track, Zboril will be looking to continue his solid start. The wait was long, but so far this season, the former first-round pick is showing that he belongs in the NHL.