Since losing to the Tampa Bay Lightning , the eventual Stanley Cup Champions, in five games in late August, Bruins fans have long awaited the new season. After parting ways with Torey Krug, Joakim Nordstrom and the addition of Craig Smith and Gregg McKegg in free agency, the 2020 Bruins roster has been shaken up. After months of waiting, the NHL has agreed on a 56 game season starting on January 13th and running until May 8th. The Stanley Cup Playoffs would include 16 teams and conclude mid July, with the 2021-22 season starting up in October. With COVID-19 still present, some teams have already announced that they will not be hosting any fans, and the divisions have been scrambled around to prevent travel, such as an all Canadian division.
What does this mean for the Boston Bruins?
According to the new plan for this season, the Boston Bruins will play all other teams in the new East division eight times. Tampa Bay has moved to the new Central division for this season, which might take away some grittiness within the East division. With this move, I think the old Bruins/Rangers rivalry will be renewed, with a an addition of a new rivalry with Philly. With Zdeno Chara questionable to return for this new season, who will fill his spot and Krugs vacant spot? While the B’s have talented left defense, like Zboril, Lauzon and Vaakanainen, only time will tell who will step up to fill the roles needed.
Incoming: Craig Smith and Greg McKegg
Craig Smith is a right winger, who previously played for the Nashville Predators since being drafted by them 98th overall in 2009. The six foot one, Wisconsin native was described as having excellent skating ability, and has some versatility, but also has some inconsistency in his game and needs to work more on defense. The B’s signed the 31 year old to a three year deal, which pays him $3,100,000 under the cap for the next three years.
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Greg McKegg is a centre, who most recently played for the New York Rangers. Drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs 62nd overall in 2010, McKegg has bounced around teams in the league. The six foot Ontario native was described as a very good playmaker at lower levels, like AHL, displays some two-way ability, but must get stronger in order to play at an NHL level. The 28 year old can be a depth forward for the Bruins, with the B’s signing him to a one year, two way contract.
How will the Bruins bounce back for last seasons second round exit? Let me know in the comments below!
Until Next Time
~RJ
Hybrid Theory Thoughts Blog 