Boston Bruins 2013 Annual Team Prospectus

Every position in hockey is important, but not many teams win championships unless they are strong down the middle. It is evident that the Boston Bruins have molded their forward core around this principal and have ensured the continuation of this by amassing a solid foundation of young centers such as Mika Zibanejad, Mikael Granlund and Mark Scheifele.  With the center position solidified, the Bruins GM has worked fervently to add depth on the wing as seen in the most recent draft with , you require talented wingers, a position the Boston GM is looking to continue to solidify. Boston has stocked the cupboard with many promising prospects. Below is a glance of the Boston Bruins most promising prospects:

Mika Zibanejad | [20] Center | Drafted 2011 Entry Draft, 10^th Overall

Ranked by the ISS as the top European forward in the 2011 entry draft, the Bruins were happy to draft Mika Zibanejad nick named “Z-Bad” at the 10^th overall position. The Bruins are happy to wait on Mika as he continues to tap into his offensive capabilities. It is Mika’s play without the puck that has pleased the Bruins the most.

Mikael Granlund |  [21] Forward | Acquired 2010-11-20

Mikael is one of the Bruins most promising offensive talents. Mikael possesses all the skill sets to become a top NHLer. Though his skating is not elite his soft hands and great hockey sense are. The biggest concern for the Bruins is for Mikael to add some mass to his 5’10” frame in order to become more assertive playing pro in North America. The Bruins are willing to wait while Mikael continues progress to reach his full potential.

Teuvo Teravainen | [18] Forward | Drafted 2012, 21^st Overall

Like fellow countryman Granlund,  Teuvo has been very effective in SM-liiga. Teuvo is a gifted playmaking winger continues to put up big numbers playing against older opponents. Teuvo’s main goal in the coming years will be continuing to add muscle and mass to his 5’10” frame. Bruins would also like to see Teuvo cross the pond in order to adjust to the North American game quicker.

Zach Kassian | [22] Right Wing | Acquired 2012-05-06

Once asked who his favorite player was and who he models his hockey style after, Zach Kassian responded “Todd Bertuzzi”. Though he continues to be a work in progress the Bruins acquired Zach in hopes he will develop a game similar to that of Bertuzzi. At 6’3” and  214 pounds, Zach has all the tools to become a hard hitting skilled power forward who can change the outcome of a game. The Bruins believe Zach is ready for the pro’s and barring any set back Zach is poised to jump to the big club next season.

Mark Scheifele | [20] Center | Drafted 2011, 7^th Overall

The Bruins continue to be exicted about the development of Mark Scheifele. At 6’3” he has the size, skill and speed to become a top NHLer. Despite his team unable to claim the Robertson Cup in the OHL, Scheifele was the clear leader for his team and one of the top players each night. Scheifele was named player of the week recording 12 points in 2 games.  The Boston Bruins are not going to rush the development of Mark however they believe he is ready to take the next step and would like to see him in the AHL.

Honorable Mentions: Sebastian Collberg, Nikita Kucherov, Markus Granlund