The Boston Bruins selected 5-foot-11 center Matthew Poitras in the 2022 NHL Entry Draft in Montreal last month. Poitras was the team’s first selection this year after trading away their first-round pick to acquire Hampus Lindholm from the Anaheim Ducks in March.
Poitras, an Ontario native, played for the OHL’s Guelph Storm last season putting up an impressive stat line of 21 goals and 29 assists totaling for 50 points in 68 games played. He is regarded as an energetic, versatile player who is capable of shifting to the wing. Known as a hard worker his scouting report says he “has a ‘won’t be outworked’ mentality” he has a strong two-way awareness which helps him break up passes and create turnovers.
Matthew Poitras boasts a low center of gravity and a strong stick which will be helpful for his play in the higher levels since he is a little smaller than some other players in the NHL. He has the makings of a good centerman.
"“He has a high hockey IQ and the vision to allow his playmaking game to flourish. He utilizes a variety of pass types to find his teammates’ tape and is very strong in the smaller areas of the ice. He manages the puck well, and his puck control allows him to read the ice and make a smart play. He’s able to exploit his own patience to succeed.- The Hockey Writers"
Poitras is also a shifty skater with good lateral speed which helps him make quick cuts on the ice to avoid contact and has strong edge work. He lacks explosiveness to lead a rush but takes the opportunity to attack down the middle when it arises but tends to stick to the outside. He is more of a pss-first player who could probably score more goals if he shot it more. Although he was 5th on the Storm in goals scored, he was 9th in shots taken so one would think that if he were to shoot it more he might score more. Even if it’s a shot that takes a deflection as long as the puck goes in its a win right?
We will have to wait and see what he does in the pre-season should he get some playing time. Check out another big Bruins Prospect here. If you liked what you read, please keep in contact with me on Twitter. Otherwise, I’ll see you next time in the Causeway Crowd!