After being acquired by the Boston Bruins at the trade deadline last year, Taylor Hall looked like a different player. Due to his play, he was given a four-year extension which brought high expectations.
In his first full season in Boston however, the former Hart trophy winner has gotten off to an uneven start. The Bruins’ secondary scoring has been inconsistent so far and getting Hall back on track will be key.
Through the Bruins first 13 games, Hall has nine points. The 30-year-old has only found the back of the net four times but attempted 44 shots. As the Bruins offense has been inconsistent at times, Hall is still trying to recapture his post-trade deadline form.
In the first two months of the season, Hall is shooting the puck less. After joining the Bruins last year, he had a 16.7 shooting percentage compared to 13.8 this year. He also has a new center in Charlie Coyle, and his time with Craig Smith on the other wing has been limited. In the Bruins’ most recent victory, however, the Alberta native showed some promising signs.
Hall will be crucial to the Bruins’ success this season
Against the Montreal Canadiens, Hall had one goal and one assist. It was his third multi-point game of the season and first since October 30th. The veteran winger attempted seven shots which were more than his three previous games combined. In the Bruins 5-2 win, he was able to create opportunities for his linemates.
As the Bruins look to rise in the standings, Hall will be essential. Although the former Sabre is averaging a career-low 15:35 of ice time per game, that will not be the case all season. Coyle and Hall’s chemistry should improve, and they will get a boost from a healthy Craig Smith. Regardless of his struggles, the Bruins have not lost faith in one of their best forwards.
When asked about demoting Hall to the third line during last Tuesday’s game, head coach Bruce Cassidy said, “We move on, today’s a new day. We’re not going to hold it against him from the last game. If we’re in that position again, which we will be, we typically win our share of games, he’ll get his opportunity to get it right.”
While Hall looks to get back on track, he will need to improve his puck possession. So far this season, he has five giveaways, and his decision-making has led to unforced turnovers. He is, however, fifth on the Bruins in points and has one power play goal.
If Hall can improve his play at both ends of the ice, then his slow start could soon become a distant memory at the seasons’ end.