Craig Smith has rediscovered his offensive touch for Bruins

So far, the 2021-2022 campaign has not gone as planned for Craig Smith.

The former fourth-round pick has battled injuries and inconsistent play. However, he has started to turn his season around over his last four games. With the Boston Bruins need of a spark offensively, the Wisconsin native is playing his best hockey of the season.

Through 21 games this season, Smith has nine points, including six assists. The veteran winger has three points in his last four games and has been more aggressive in the offensive zone. His recent play has provided a reminder of his importance to the Bruins success.

Since the calendar flipped to January, Smith has landed five shots on net. While spending some time on the Bruins top line, he has created scoring opportunities due to his two-way play. As Boston has seen a rise in production from Smith, they have outscored their opponents 9-4 over the last two days.

Seeing an offensive production from Smith is crucial for Bruins’ success

As the Bruins look to rise in the standings, Smith’s play will be critical. Since the 2009 draftee signed in Boston, the Bruins have gone 23-4-1 in games that he has recorded at least one point. In games that he has gone scoreless, the Bruins win rate has dropped significantly as they have posted a 22-17-8 record. With points at a premium, Smith is rounding into form at the perfect time.

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Additionally, Smith is making an impact at both ends of the ice. In 209 minutes of ice time this season, the former Predator has landed 25 hits. He has not been afraid of sacrificing his body and blocked nine shots. As Smith has gotten healthier, his impact has been seen on a nightly basis.

While the 32-year-old has been a perfect fit on the Bruins’ top line, the lineup will likely change before the season ends. The Bruins’  secondary scoring has come alive so far in 2022, but the regular season is far from over. The last two games have been an example of the team Boston hopes to be, which is a reassuring sign as the trade deadline draws closer.

Regardless of how the roster changes, the Bruins have gotten a long-awaited boost from Smith. As Boston looks to build on their two-game winning streak, he will be a player to keep an eye on.