General Manager Sweeney has hinted that the vacancy on the second line is open for competition. Young talents such as Georgii Merkulov and Fabian Lysell are expected to vie for this position, provided they exhibit the same dedication and attitude that Charlie Coyle displayed going into the 2023-24 season. However, Merkulov and Lysell are not the only players to watch. Center Matthew Poitras is also poised to be a key player for the Bruins in the 2024-25 season, aiming to make a strong comeback.
**Reflecting on Poitras’ Rookie Season**
Poitras’ debut season in 2023-24 was one of the highlights for the Bruins. Entering his second training camp with the team, Poitras, a second-round pick from the 2022 draft, brought the right mindset and work ethic, compelling the coaches to retain him on the roster instead of sending him back to the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). This decision proved to be beneficial for the team.
Poitras injected much-needed youthful energy into the Bruins’ lineup. His speed, composure, and playmaking abilities, combined with his proficiency with the puck, made him an invaluable asset. His presence provided the team with added depth, and he quickly became a key player.
During the regular season, Poitras scored five goals and accumulated 15 points over 33 games. He started the season on fire, tallying five goals and 11 points in the first two months. Notably, he scored his first NHL goal within just five games.
Poitras’ impact extended beyond his point production. His performance at five-on-five play was exceptional, leading Bruins centers in Corsi for percentage (49.94%) among those with over 100 minutes of ice time. The team performed better in terms of shots on goal and goal differential when he was on the ice. His expected goals for (xGF) stood at 18.33, with an expected goals for percentage (xGF%) of 54.31. Poitras’ puck possession skills were evident, and his contributions were sorely missed following his injury.
**Looking Ahead to Year Two**
Despite a promising start, Poitras’ rookie season was cut short by a shoulder injury sustained from a hit during a game against the Arizona Coyotes (now Utah Hockey Club) on December 9, 2023. This injury required surgery and ended his season prematurely.
Reflecting on the injury, Poitras acknowledged the need to add size to his frame, noting, “I needed to put on a bit of size. I came into camp last year definitely undersized. There were some bigger guys that maybe I couldn’t hold my own against as much.”
This is a common challenge for smaller players entering the league. However, Poitras has been diligent in his rehabilitation and has added eight to nine pounds of muscle, making him more robust for the upcoming season. This added strength is expected to enhance his performance in puck battles and physical play, areas where he previously struggled due to his smaller size.
Poitras has expressed confidence in his improved physicality, stating, “I feel a bit stronger. … I want to be able to win those one-on-one battles because I’m a guy who likes to have the puck up in the zone.” His determination and positive outlook are encouraging signs for the Bruins.
Additionally, Poitras aims to improve his performance in the faceoff circle, where he had a 47.6% success rate during the 2023-24 season. This is a crucial area for improvement, as the Bruins struggled with faceoffs during their playoff run. A stronger showing from Poitras in this aspect will significantly benefit the team.
**Poitras’ Role in Strengthening the Bruins**
As the Bruins look ahead to the 2024-25 season, there is a strong focus on the development of their young players. With the competition for the second-line wing position and the anticipated growth of Poitras, the team is hopeful for a more robust lineup. Poitras, with his growing confidence and positive attitude, is a valuable presence in the team.
Poitras is expected to center the third line, flanked by Trent Frederic and Morgan Geekie. If he can build on his rookie season’s impact, the Bruins will benefit from increased depth, particularly down the middle. The second year promises to be a significant and special one for Poitras, with expectations high for his continued development and contribution to the team.
