Getting to Know Elliott Groenewold

It began with a trade. The Bruins sent the 122^nd pick and Jakub Lauko to the Minnesota Wild for the 110th pick while also re-acquiring Vinni Lettieri.

The Bruins addressed an organizational need and selected life-long Bruins fan, 6’2” defenceman Elliott Groenewold.

Groenewold is a mature defensive defenceman at this point. He takes care of business in front of his net and is very good at boxing out and giving his goaltenders an opportunity to see pucks. He uses his size well and wins the majority of his board battles. He is not shy about stepping up and taking away time and space from his opponents.

In transition, Groenewold can make a good pass and on the tape. He does have issues when challenged and sometimes requires time to make his decision. He is willing to jump up into the play and join the rush in transition.

There is work to be done offensively. He has a hard heavy shot from the blueline. He is especially effective at passing the puck into the slot area for scoring chances.

His skating is good. He lacks first step acceleration, but once he gets moving, he is fine. He has good mobility, strong edges and strong on his skates. He transitions from forward to backward skating relatively easily.

There is a long development road ahead for Groenewold. He is heading to Quinnipiac University next season and the process begins.