Boston Bruins: Krejci is excelling with newly formed line

In the Boston Bruins last four games, they have looked like a different team. The defending President’s Trophy winners have gone 4-0 and outscored opponents 16-6. The Bruins additions have sparked the offense and brought needed depth. With the addition of Taylor Hall, Boston’s second line has been a points machine. While the Bruins scoring has been spread out of late, David Krejci has been in vintage form.

Before the trade deadline, he had 23 points in 35 games. The veteran center only had two goals and had gone five games without a point. While Craig Smith has been on an offensive tear, the former second-round pick had gotten off to a slow start in April. As the Bruins have won four straight, Krejci has found his offensive touch.

During Boston’s win streak, the Czech native has five points. Three of his five goals this season have come in that span. Krejci has also come through in the clutch of late. On Sunday afternoon, his second goal of the game was the difference-maker in Boston’s 6-3 win over the Washington Capitals.

Additionally, in four games since the deadline, Boston’s second line has been a concern for opponents. The trio of Krejci, Hall, and Smith have a combined 13 points in that span including seven goals. For a team that has struggled to receive consistent scoring, their play has been a welcoming sign. During Boston’s win streak, Krejci’s importance has been on full display.

With the addition of Hall, Krejci has been able to slow down the game. The Bruins’ second line is creating scoring chances seemingly every time they touch the ice. Krejci has used the strengths of Hall to his advantage and brought out the best in the former Hart Trophy winner.  Sunday afternoon was also his first two-goal game since last January.

As the Bruins make their playoff push, the play of Krejci will be key. To make a deep playoff, the Bruins will need their secondary scoring at its best. The Bruins’ second line will be exciting to watch down the stretch as their chemistry continues to improve. Although Krejci has an uncertain future in Boston, his play of late has been vital.