The Boston Bruins have been hard at work this summer in preparation for the 2024-25 NHL season. The Bruins entered the offseason looking to turn things around following a second-round playoff exit against the Florida Panthers, resulting in general manager Don Sweeney adding reinforcement such as Elias Lindholm, Nikita Zadorov, and Max Jones.
The Bruins’ offseason wasn’t without some casualties, though. Adding new players means that old ones had to be kicked to the curb. While various members of last year’s roster have already landed in new homes, certain individuals are struggling to receive their next NHL contract.
After signing a cheap one-year deal last offseason, James Van Riemsdyk looked like the steal of the summer to open the 2023-24 regular season. The former 2007 No. 2 selection thrived in a middle-six role with the Bruins, tallying 11 goals and 26 points through his first 51 games.
Assuming that he stayed on that path, Van Riemsdyk was on pace for 59 points in 82 games, which would’ve been three points away from his career high. Unfortunately, the veteran forward quickly fell off after his electric start, recording just one assist without a goal in his final 20 regular-season games.
Van Riemsdyk ended up being more productive in the postseason, but not by much. The 35-year-old left-handed shot scored one goal while adding four assists in 11 playoff games, which includes ending the postseason on a nine-game goal drought.
Speculation is now circling about where Van Riemsdyk could play next season, however, no concrete suitors have emerged. It’s entirely possible he’ll have to go through the professional tryout (PTO) system to earn his next contract. Otherwise, JVR might have to take another route to continue his career.
