Bruins Fans Calling For This Transaction To Be Completed

The 23-year-old, standing at 5-foot-11 and weighing 176 pounds, entered the scene as an undrafted NCAA free agent signed by the Bruins in 2022. Currently lighting up the Providence Bruins, Merkulov boasts an impressive streak, tallying ten goals and eight assists in his last 12 games.

As of Thursday night, he secured the fourth spot in AHL scoring for the season, boasting 30 points (14 goals, 16 assists) in 31 games.

Reflecting on his rookie season, the Russian forward delivered an outstanding performance with 24 goals and 31 assists in 67 games. This followed a successful stint with the Ohio State Buckeyes, where he notched 20 goals and 14 assists in 36 games.

While the Bruins maintain an average of 3.09 goals per game this season, they've only managed to surpass three goals in 12 instances, including the recent 4-1 victory over the Sabres.

Jim Montgomery, the head coach, acknowledged Merkulov's recent hot streak, emphasizing his improvement in the defensive zone and the overall 200-foot game.

However, Montgomery underlined that Merkulov's call-up to the major league is contingent on various factors, including opportunities arising from injuries or standout performances amid team struggles.

As the Bruins gear up for potential lineup adjustments with rookie center Matt Poitras away at the World Junior Championship until early January, the question lingers: will the team heed the fervent calls of its fan base and grant Merkulov a coveted spot on the big stage?

The anticipation builds as fans await the team's decision before the impending Gold medal game in Sweden.