The Boston Bruins are gearing up for their season opener against the Washington Capitals after a challenging previous year. Under the leadership of new head coach Marco Sturm, the team is determined to leave behind last season’s disappointments. They are set to face the Capitals, who were the top team in the Eastern Conference last year, making this match a true test of their resilience.
Top 5 Bruins Players to Watch in the Season Opener
As the Bruins prepare for this pivotal game, here are five key players to keep an eye on:
Morgan Geekie
Winger Morgan Geekie stands out as a pivotal figure for the Bruins. After a breakout season where he scored 33 goals, Geekie has secured a long-term contract. He will continue to skate on a potent line with Elias Lindholm and David Pastrnak, a trio that performed well together last season. In limited play, this line outshot opponents significantly and provided strong offensive results. Geekie’s prior success against the Capitals, with three assists in two games, adds to his importance in this matchup.
Fraser Minten
Fraser Minten is poised to take on a crucial role centering the third line alongside Tanner Jeannot and Mikey Eyssimont. Acquired from the Toronto Maple Leafs, Minten showed promise with one goal in six games last season. The 21-year-old’s youth and skill could prove invaluable as the season progresses.
Hampus Lindholm
Returning from a significant injury layoff, defenseman Hampus Lindholm is another key player for the Bruins. He fractured his patella nearly 11 months ago, missing the entire last season. Early signs from preseason games indicate that Lindholm’s performance level is high. He is expected to influence both defense and offense significantly, and he has an impressive record against the Capitals with six goals in 21 games.
Ryan Leonard
For the Capitals, keep an eye on Ryan Leonard. The young winger was a high draft pick in 2023 and has begun to make his mark in the NHL. Known for his agility and scoring ability, Leonard could pose significant challenges for the Bruins, particularly as he finds his footing in a larger role this season.
Aliaksei Protas
Another threat for Washington is Aliaksei Protas. Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 247 pounds, Protas had a notable season last year, scoring 30 goals and providing 66 points. His ability to impact the game at even strength and on the penalty kill will be critical as the Bruins look to establish their game plan against a talented Capitals squad. In his last game against Boston, Protas contributed two goals and an assist.
As the opening game approaches, all eyes will be on these players. Their performances could define the trajectory of the Bruins’ season. With the stakes high against a formidable opponent, the Bruins must capitalize on their capabilities to start their season on a strong note.
