3 crucial keys Bruins will need for success this 2023-24 season
Looking ahead to the 2023-24 season, the Boston Bruins face a cloud of uncertainty.
With notable players leaving and retirements of veterans Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci, doubts linger about the team's prospects within the Atlantic Division and Eastern Conference.
Recalling the previous season, skepticism reigned then as well, yet under the guidance of first-year coach Jim Montgomery, the Bruins surprised everyone by setting records for wins and points.
Ultimately, their playoff journey ended with a first-round loss to the Florida Panthers. As the new season approaches, three pivotal factors are poised to shape the Bruins' success.
1. Strong Goaltending Remains Crucial in 2023-24
The previous season saw unexpected standout performances from Linus Ullmark and Jeremy Swayman.
Must read on Bruins Insider
Their contributions played a pivotal role in Boston securing the Presidents' Trophy and the Jennings Trophy. Remarkably, this was achieved despite Swayman's month-long absence due to injury.
Ullmark's outstanding year culminated in him receiving the Vezina Trophy, boasting an impressive 40-6-1 record, a 1.89 goals against average (GAA), and a .938 save percentage (SV%). Surprisingly, he tallied just two shutouts.
Over his two seasons with Boston, he accumulated 66 wins in 90 games. Swayman, at just 24 years old, showcased his potential with a record of 24-6-4, a 2.27 GAA, and a .920 SV%, including four shutouts.
With both goalies under contract, their combined $8.475 million salary necessitates strong performances to counterbalance potential offensive struggles.
2. Demand for Depth Scoring in 2023-24
This season underscores the urgency for supplementary scoring. The absence of Taylor Hall, Tyler Bertuzzi, and Bergeron demands increased contributions from a broader array of players.
The reliable output of Brad Marchand and David Pastrnak is anticipated, and there's optimism regarding Jake DeBrusk approaching his career-high 27 goals.
Beyond them, the team hinges on additional sources of scoring, such as newcomers Morgan Geekie, Jesper Boqvist, and James van Riemsdyk.
Last season's defensive productivity will need replication, led by players like Charlie McAvoy and Hampus Lindholm, as their contributions could be decisive for the team's playoff aspirations.
3. Mitigating Long-Term Injuries is Paramount
The Bruins' success last season was partly due to avoiding significant injuries. While facing minor setbacks, they navigated the challenges with resilience.
However, with a thinner roster this season, enduring multiple injuries could prove detrimental. The Providence Bruins' prospects, including Georgii Merkulov and Fabian Lysell, might be called upon for reinforcement.
Jakub Zboril and Mason Lohrei provide defensive depth. With the recent roster changes impacting the team's depth, keeping players healthy is essential.
The development of prospects with the Providence Bruins could be pivotal for the Bruins' future.
As the 2023-24 season looms, the Bruins face an intriguing scenario. These three factors — consistent goaltending, depth scoring, and injury management — will significantly shape their journey.
Adapting to a revamped roster following the remarkable 2022-23 season adds another layer of intrigue to this upcoming chapter in Bruins history.
