Boston Bruins: Who will be the breakout player this season?
By Bryan Murphy
Jack Studnicka solidifies a center role for the Bruins
With the loss of Krejci this offseason, the Bruins are in a big need of a second-line center. They also desperately need one of their forward prospects to take the next step and become a full-time NHLer.
They could kill two birds with one stone if Jack Studnicka proves to be that guy. He’s already filled the second-line role this preseason with Charlie Coyle getting back from an injury. Studnicka could keep that role, as Coyle is more suited for the third-line center role.
The second-round pick from 2017 bulked up this offseason, adding on 15 pounds and it’s noticeable during the preseason. He got 20 games at the NHL level last season, so he’s had a taste of what it takes to play in the show.
Most likely, Coyle will get the second line spot to start the season and the third line is building chemistry with Erik Haula centering it. But if Studnicka gets hot, the Bruins should consider putting him on the second line and bump Coyle down.