Boston Bruins: Cameron Hughes should be next forward called up

With injuries and players being placed on the COVID list, the Boston Bruins have seen their fair share of call-ups this season.

But so far, one player that has stood out for the AHL’s Providence Bruins has yet to get the call-up this season, and he deserves at least a look. That’s the former University of Wisconsin captain Cameron Hughes.

The native of Edmonton is averaging over a point per game, as Hughes leads the P-Bruins with 16 points this season in just 15 games played. He has five multi-point games, already matched his point total from last season where he skated in 44 contests, and his 12 assists also lead all Providence players. He currently has a six-game point streak, with 10 points in those six games.

Hughes doesn’t solve the bottom-six problem, but he won’t hurt it either

It’s a bit of a log jam at center, which is why for the most part, youngsters like Trent Frederic and Jack Studnicka have been forced to shift to wing in the Bruins’ lineup.

This can be part of the reasoning why Hughes has been passed over for the likes of Karson Kuhlman, Anton Blidh, and Zach Senyshyn, who all primarily are wings. But Hughes has shifted to play the left wing at times in Providence.

Boston liked Hughes’ game enough to bring him up for one game last season, where he made his NHL debut in early November. He saw just under 10 minutes of ice and had a -1 rating and immediately was sent back down to the minors. This is what head coach Bruce Cassidy had to say in lieu of his call-up last season.

"“He’s an energy guy. Good motor. He should be able to help us on the penalty kill. He did a good job [in Providence] so that’s an area we’re looking for him to support with some guys out.”He’s just a guy that will get on pucks and give you everything he’s got, so he should add to whatever line he’s on and be a good fit for a bottom-6 role.”"

If the Bruins continue to play musical chairs with who gets to play on the fourth and even third line for the near future, there’s no reason why Hughes shouldn’t be considered. Just a couple weeks ago, Oskar Steen was given the opportunity to skate in two games, so it’s not like journeymen are getting the minutes over prospects.

Would it benefit Hughes more to stay in Providence and continue to develop? Absolutely. He’s having a great bounce back season after dealing with injuries last season. But with the Bruins struggling to solidify their bottom-six and willing to try multiple bodies at those spots, a point-per-game player shouldn’t be anything to breeze over.

Hughes won’t be a solution to their problem, but if the Bruins are willing to give other prospects a game here and there, then Hughes deserves a chance as well.