The Boston Bruins season has just begun but fans have reason to be excited about Matthew Poitras.
In Poitras first game of the season, he assisted on the game-winning goal against the Los Angeles Kings in a Saturday matinee. David Pastrnak put home the goal and was quick to praise his teammate.
“It was a great job by Potsy,” Pastrnak told reporters. “I think he’s a great player, and we haven’t seen him play a meaningful game in a long time so we were all happy to see him come back. It’s incredible how strong on the puck he is for his size, he’s so impressive at that and that’s what sticks out about him the most.”
The game was Poitras first since January 25 when he suffered a shoulder injury that required surgery. While one point might not seem like much, Bruins head coach Jim Montgomery believes that it was Poitras best game as a pro.
“Matty Poitras, for his first game back in eight months, was special,” Montgomery said postgame. “I thought that was the best game he’s played as an NHL player, including some two goal games last year. You can see how hard he worked in the offseason, and you saw his strength in skating throughout whole shifts. It’s a significant difference from last year, so when he has the stamina to stay on the ice long he’ll have the chance to make plays.”
If Poitras can continue to be an impact performer, Bruins fans will feel a lot better about the center position. Even when Patrice Bergeron was still active, Boston struggled for depth at center. If Boston could have a top nine featuring three talented centers, the Bruins could compete for a Stanley Cup.
As Montgomery mentioned, Poitras seems stronger which is an evolution that is seen plenty from younger players. When Pastrnak first entered the NHL, he struggled to maintain possession and stay on the puck. In addition, if Poitras can be on the ice longer, he will have more opportunities to score and make an impact.
So it seems like Poitras is on the precipice of a breakout. He should receive significant playing time and will get the opportunity to show he is a top-nine player in the NHL.
The season is still young, and Poitras will need to prove he can be consistent, but he is a player that Bruins fans should watch as the campaign progresses.