The defensemen are: Brandon Carlo, Derek Forbort, Matt Grzelcyk, Hampus Lindholm, Charlie McAvoy, Ian Mitchell, and Kevin Shattenkirk.
Analysis
The first thing that sticks out to me on this list is Derek Forbort over Mason Lohrei. Yes, Forbort has more NHL, not to mention professional, experience than Lohrei does, but Forbort gave Bruins’ general manager Don Sweeney nothing to think about during the preseason.
Lohrei gave him plenty to ponder on as the preseason wore on. He was in on every play, he was eating up minutes, and towards the end, he was even scoring goals. With the Bruins being heavy-handed with right-handed defensemen, it’s between the newcomers (Ian Mitchell and Kevin Shattenkirk) for who gets scratched.
My guess is, he had options to the AHL, and ultimately, he was beat out by Ian Mitchell who didn’t. Not only that, but Mitchell was too valuable for Sweeney to risk losing to waivers. Lohrei may get consistent playing time with the Providence Bruins, but don’t be surprised if he isn’t down there for long.
Projected Lines (just guesses):
Charlie McAvoy-Hampus Lindholm
Brandon Carlo-Matt Grzelcyk
Ian Mitchell/Kevin Shattenkirk-Derek Forbort