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One Answer the Boston Bruins Can Live Without

As the Boston Bruins gear up for the 2024-25 season, they find themselves in a stronger position at center than on the wing. This strategic depth down the middle reflects the blueprint of Stanley Cup contenders, and while it may not be flawless, it’s a move the Bruins are comfortable with.

A Glimpse into the Past

To understand the significance of this approach, it’s worth revisiting the legendary 1976-77 Montreal Canadiens, arguably the greatest team of the NHL’s expansion era. With a staggering 60-8-12 record, they remain the only team to lose fewer than ten games since the 1944-45 Canadiens. Led by coach Scotty Bowman, this Canadiens team didn’t just dominate; they rewrote the record books, with their only “weakness” being the initial uncertainty at center.

Bowman took two seasons to decide whether Jacques Lemaire or Peter Mahovlich was the better fit between Guy Lafleur and Steve Shutt. Lemaire ultimately proved to be the right choice, scoring the overtime Cup-winning goal against the Bruins in 1977. The Bruins, while respectful in their defeat, were reminded of the importance of strength down the middle, a lesson they’ve carried forward.

The 2023-24 Bruins: A Transition Year

The 2023-24 season was a transitional one for the Bruins, marked by the absence of franchise pillars Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci. Charlie Coyle stepped up admirably, filling a crucial role that kept the Bruins competitive in the Atlantic Division and even in the hunt for the Presidents’ Trophy. Coyle’s performance, alongside Pavel Zacha and rookie Matt Poitras, helped stabilize the Bruins’ center depth, even as the team grappled with other uncertainties.

The Bruins’ decision to build around their back end, even amid this transition, showed their commitment to long-term success. However, questions linger about how they will fill out the wings, particularly on the right side behind David Pastrnak.

The Morgan Geekie Conundrum

One intriguing subplot heading into the new season is the role of Morgan Geekie. With Elias Lindholm now on board and assuming the roster remains healthy, Geekie’s position will likely shift between second or third-line right wing or third-line center. His adaptability will be crucial as the Bruins continue to find their footing in a post-Bergeron/Krejci era.

Zacha, who has shown potential at center, may be experimented with on left wing alongside Lindholm and Pastrnak, leaving the right-wing position in flux. Fabian Lysell, a first-round draft pick, will have a significant opportunity to cement his place, while others like Trent Frederic and Max Jones will need to prove themselves with every shift.

Off-Ice Changes and the Broadcast Booth

The Bruins’ offseason was not only about roster changes but also adjustments in their broadcast team. Judd Sirott will now take over TV duties from Jack Edwards, who retired due to a speech ailment. Edwards, known for his passionate and unapologetically biased commentary, will be missed. His successor, Sirott, who previously worked with Bob Beers in the radio booth, is expected to form a strong partnership with Andy Brickley on NESN.

As for the radio side, the spotlight is on 98.5’s Ryan Johnston, a seasoned broadcaster with a deep understanding of hockey. His potential move to the radio play-by-play role would be a fitting reward for his dedication and talent.

Looking Ahead

The 2024-25 season will be one of experimentation and adaptation for the Bruins. As they navigate life without Bergeron and Krejci, the team’s strength down the middle will be tested, and the right-wing position remains a significant question mark. However, with a solid core and a willingness to adapt, the Bruins are poised to remain competitive in the Eastern Conference.

The experiments, both on and off the ice, are just beginning. As the Bruins prepare to open their season against the Montreal Canadiens, fans will be eager to see how these changes unfold, hoping that the answers they find on the ice will lead them deep into the playoffs.