Matthew Poitras to play alongside two body guards for the entire 2024-25 season
The Boston Bruins have found gold with Matthew Poitras last season before an injury, took him out of the lineup he played 33 games for the Bruins.
He'd score 15 points( 5 G, 10 A) with a +4 in that timeframe, and unfortunately was the victim of another injury that removed him from the season opener against the Montreal Canadiens.
He'd make it back into the lineup against the Los Angeles Kings, and lend an assist in the win.
However, there were concerns about his status, and ability to return after the undisclosed injury stunted his NHL career.
«Poitras is continuing to make his steps that we go through,» Montgomery told reporters, per a team-provided video. «Today (Thursday) was his first day without a red jersey.»
It was only by October 10th that he was available to skate and wasn't wearing a no-contact jersey.
The Bruins need Poitras healthy so he can continue to develop and be successful, as the team has lofty expectations this season.
«It doesn't matter - any guy I put beside him, besides (Brad Marchand), would be a big guy on our team now. It's the way we're built,» Montgomery told reporters Saturday. «It's not the reason he's playing with those two, it's not a size thing. It's just really where we think the chemistry fits best to start.» Montgomery did place him between two massive Bruins players, who embody the Big Bad Bruins stereotype, in Justin Brazeau(6'5", and 220 lbs), and Trent Frederic(6'3", and 220 lbs).
While this is nice, and some cushioning for Poitras who will be the lines only, legitimate playmaker.
Honestly, why didn't they do this before?
This could've cut the chances of another injury he suffered beforehand. Placing him with Frederic, gives him a protector, the line some edge, and some offense where Poitras will be comfortable to play his own game, while Brazeau gets pucks in the dirty areas, and protects his teammate if need be.
Is it another case of Jim Montgomery's oversight of the Bruins?
The Bruins expect Matthew Poitras to take the next step this season, and they need to ensure he's healthy.
POLL |
Do you think the Bruins have done a poor job of protecting Matthew Poitras in the lineup? |
Yes | 49 | 52.1 % |
No | 45 | 47.9 % |
List of polls |
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