Most people believe the Bruins need a second-line right winger. Trent Frederic, Morgan Geekie, and rookie Fabian Lysell are potential candidates. Some are even considering Justin Brazeau. However, Georgii Merkulov is also being given consideration by many people outside the organization.
But is Merkulov a serious contender?
You should not discount him. However, think about this: Merkulov is a natural left-handed center. Looking back to the 2018-2019 season with Kapitan Stupino of the MHL, I struggle to find many instances where Merkulov played as a right winger during 5v5 play. He has played plenty of left wing, including in his time with the Providence Bruins. Is it ideal for him to learn a new position in the NHL?
If Merkulov forces his way onto the roster, it’s likely Frederic would move to the second line right wing position and Merkulov would assume Frederic’s spot as the third line left winger. Or Geekie would take that second line spot while Frederic moves to right wing on the third line and Merkulov would join him on the opposite side. That presents a different issue for Coach Jim Montgomery (see below). But what if Lysell forces his was into that second line spot?
If Lysell performs well enough in camp to secure the second line spot, the main competition for Merkulov will be for the third-line center position against Matthew Poitras. One of them would center the third line between Frederic and Geekie. It is highly unlikely that Montgomery would pair two young players like Lysell/Poitras or Merkulov/Lysell together.
Brazeau is likely looking at battling Max Jones, John Beecher and Mark Kastelic for fourth line duties, a role that Merkulov is not really suited for. It is not an ideal situation for him to break into the NHL.
Several people believe that this season could be crucial for Lysell, but at only 21 years old, starting in Providence won’t be the end of his career. The situation is similar for Poitras, who is just 20. In contrast, Merkulov, who will be 24 when the season begins, needs to seize the opportunity and make a statement.
Merkulov, Lysell and Poitras each have different skill sets that could benefit the Bruins. It’s going to come down to who wants it more.
Dom - Hockey 
Dom, is Poitras in the mix at all for RW or do they see him strictly as a center? Didn’t they have him on the wing a few times last season before they shut him down? Interested to get your perspective.
Thanks
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Yes he did. But I also saw Poitras play RW for about 1/3 of a season in junior and it wasn’t his thing. Really took off when he was moved to center full time. I also think that effected his draft stock.
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