Boston Bruins: Deadline acquisitions making their mark

The Boston Bruins were a busy team at the trade deadline. To improve their roster for a playoff run, Boston acquired Taylor Hall, Curtis Lazar, and Mike Reilly. Although the Bruins’ newest pieces have been in Boston for less than a week, they are already making their presence felt. Over the last three games, the B’s have looked like a different team, partly due to their trade deadline acquisitions.

Since losing to the Capitals, 8-1, on the eve of the trade deadline, Boston has won three straight. In that span, Lazar, Hall, and Reilly have a combined five points, including three goals. The B’s have also played some of their best hockey of the season over the past week, although they are still adjusting to a new system, the Bruins’ newest pieces have been a perfect fit.

Before being traded to the Bruins, Taylor Hall only had two goals this season. In his first three games in the spoked B, he has already matched that total. With Boston, he has also looked more engaged offensively and sparked the Bruins’ secondary scoring. With Hall in the mix, Boston’s second line has created high-quality scoring chances.

While Hall has been impressive, the Bruins have also received a boost from Mike Reilly. The veteran defenseman has two assists in three games since joining the Bruins. He is creating offensive chances and getting the puck to the net. The former fourth-round pick has added an offensive touch to the blueline that Boston had been lacking.

Like Hall and Reilly, the B’s final addition Curtis Lazar is also making a name for himself. On Thursday night, Lazar scored his first goal with his new team. He has added energy to the fourth line and changed the way they play. With Lazar on board, they have been better in the offensive zone.

As Boston looks to improve their playoff position, the play of these three will be key. The Black and Gold will also get reinforcements in the coming weeks as Brandon Carlo and Matt Grzelcyk return from injuries. In their first week, however, the Bruins deadline pieces are showing why Don Sweeney wanted them on the roster.