Important Issues The Bruins Need to Address

General manager Don Sweeney set the tone, emphasizing the competitive nature of the NHL: «You've got to take somebody's job. That's what you have to do in the National Hockey League. You have to literally take somebody's job.»

The battles ahead include Trent Frederic versus Fabian Lysell, Morgan Geekie versus Georgii Merkulov, and Milan Lucic versus Danton Heinen. This time, the bosses will closely monitor who deserves those coveted NHL paychecks.

Coach Jim Montgomery echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the hunt for surprises and the willingness to adapt to change. With the departure of key players like Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci, adjustments are necessary.

Here are the key priorities as the camp begins:

Frederic's Role: Trent Frederic is expected to get a chance to shine as a top-six wing, alongside Charlie Coyle. His ability to mesh with Coyle will be crucial for the Bruins' puck control.

System Adjustments: With the departure of Bergeron and Krejci, players like Pavel Zacha and Coyle must adapt to new roles. Centers in the Bruins' system have high demands.

No. 3 Center: Finding the optimal No. 3 center will be a challenge, with less offensive firepower expected in this role. Geekie could seize this opportunity with his competitiveness and hockey sense.

Prospect Opportunities: Second-year pros and eager prospects, including Lysell, Merkulov, John Beecher, Oskar Steen, and Marc McLaughlin, will vie for spots on the roster. Experience won't guarantee a place.

Bumper Position: The Bruins need to audition multiple players for the crucial bumper position on the power play, a role once mastered by Bergeron. The choice between right and left shots will determine the strategy.

Chiasson vs. Heinen: The Bruins are looking for a goal-scoring presence on the right wing. Chiasson and Heinen are options, each with their strengths and weaknesses. Training camp will be their chance to prove themselves.

Defensive Pairings: While the Bruins have some solid defensive pairings, Coach Montgomery may experiment with different tandems. Familiarity is an advantage, but versatility may be explored.

As the Bruins embark on this training camp, the competition and adaptability of players will be closely watched. Every player, whether established or on a professional tryout, has the opportunity to make a lasting impression and impact the team's roster decisions.

As seen on theathletic