Mailbag With Dom: July 14, 2025

We’re deep into the dog days of summer, and Bruins fans have plenty on their minds—what the team did, what they didn’t do, and what lies ahead before training camp kicks off. So, I opened the floor to your questions and responded with my take. Of course, some answers will have to wait until camp wraps up and the picture becomes clearer.

Sophia asks: How would you rate the Bruins Draft?

Answer:  The Bruins had an impressive showing at the 2025 NHL Entry Draft, earning an A- grade from me overall. The selection of Vashek Blanar certainly caught many by surprise. While North American scouts have been more reserved in their evaluations, the European scouts I spoke with are notably more enthusiastic about his potential. Blanar is undeniably raw, but his offensive skill set is promising—provided it translates effectively to the NHL level. His defensive game remains a work in progress, yet the belief among Euro scouts is that, with proper development, he could evolve into a reliable shutdown defenseman without compromising his offensive abilities. I will be watching him a lot this upcoming season.

Cory asks: Will the Bruins trade Korpisalo? DiPietro is ready to take the reins from him.

Answer: It seems likely that the Bruins will let Joonas Korpisalo and Michael DiPietro compete for a roster spot during training camp, trusting that GM Don Sweeney and Head Coach Marco Sturm are serious about giving younger players a real opportunity, and if DiPietro wins a spot, they’ll make room for him. If DiPietro does earn a spot, it could lead to either exploring a trade for Korpisalo or assigning him to Providence. The team did protect themselves by structuring DiPietro’s contract to make him less attractive on the waiver wire, but given the current cap landscape and teams with spending room, there’s no guarantee he’d go unclaimed. The real question becomes: how can the Bruins better capitalize on their goaltending assets?

Sophia with another question asks: What should the Bruins do with their 2026 draft picks?

Answer: Unless they’re able to acquire a young, already proven NHL player, I believe they should hold on to their draft picks. The 2026 class is expected to be deeper and more talent-rich than 2025, so sticking to their current plan makes sense. I’d support trading picks for a rising star with established NHL success, but not for an older player in a bid to chase a playoff spot. They’ve mapped out a clear direction—it’s best they stay the course.

Manny asks: Everyone talks about giving Lysell a chance and his potential. What am I missing? Does not impress at the AHL level and weak at the NHL level. I don’t think he makes it.

Answer: I wouldn’t go so far as to call Fabian Lysell weak at the NHL level—’unproven over the long haul’ feels more accurate. He showed flashes late in the season, and that might have stemmed from a confidence boost. On the flip side, each return to Providence has come with a noticeable dip, which again could tie back to his confidence. Whether he sticks with the big club or not remains to be seen—you might be right, or not—but it all hinges on how things unfold in camp. Neither side can say for certain until then.

Gary asks: If the Bruins were to keep both Poitras and Minten on the roster who plays where in your opinion? Both profile as a 3C? Would one slide to wing? Who do you think has greater upside.

Answer: Matthew Poitras likely has the higher ceiling, while Fraser Minten appears to be the more well-rounded player—though his offensive output may be limited to secondary scoring. They bring distinct skill sets and strengths to the table. Both players are versatile enough to shift to the wing without missing a beat. However, given the Bruins’ emphasis on strong defensive play from their centermen, Minten’s edge in that department makes Poitras a more logical candidate to move to the wing.

Mike asks: Hi Dom…wondering what your thoughts are on the last 5 NHL drafts the bruins had and what draft class has the potential to generate the most NHL players for the Bruins, and if any what player drafted might surprise everyone.

Answer: In my view, the 2025 draft holds the greatest potential to produce future NHL talent for the Bruins. James Hagens stands alone in a tier of his own, while Will Moore was a steal who unexpectedly fell into Boston’s lap. Sixth-rounder Kirill Yemelyanov flies under the radar but could prove to be a hidden gem in the sixth round. Blanar, meanwhile, has earned rave reviews at Development Camp—though he still faces a steep developmental path.

The 2024 draft class presents a question mark in Jonathan Morello, and from 2023, Chris Pelosi appears to be the most likely candidate to crack the NHL. The 2022 draft is coming along well, with Poitras, Dans Locmelis, and Frederic Brunet showing promise. Jackson Edward will need time, however. The team has already parted ways with Reid Dyck and is expected to lose the rights to Cole Spicer by August 2026.

As for the 2021 draft, I’m still holding out hope for Lysell, Oskar Jellvik, Andre Gasseau, and Ty Gallagher to carve out roles at the next level. However, there are many questions about how they will fit with the Bruins moving forward.

Domenic asks: Is Joonas Korpisalo the Boston Bruins’ best trade chip? If yes, who could the B’s acquire for him? Could the B’s package him with a prospect or two? What are you hearing?

Answer: Best trade chip? I have to disagree. In fact, he might hold one of the lowest trade values on the roster, and moving him would likely require a package deal. From what I gather, there have been talks with other teams, and the Bruins may be a bit taken aback by how he’s viewed across the league. There’s also a clear hesitation to deal him, especially with the NHL trending toward three-goalie systems. If they were to trade Korpisalo, they’d be compromising their depth almost entirely.

Mark asks: How many of the young guys make the team? Do you think the Bruins have hurt their development by signing a bunch of bottom-six guys?

Answer: I don’t think any signing has hurt any young player’s development. Just how many are ready for the NHL? You want your young players to have to compete for playing time and this does just that. I believe if they earn a spot, they will be given a spot and management will figure out how to fit them in. If not, they go to Providence and work harder. I do believe though that if they earn a spot, they will be on a shorter leash.

Toad Nj asks: Saw this from Daily Faceoff re: new cba. Seems like this could be a big deal. “Speaking of movement from the NHL to the American Hockey League, if a player is assigned to an AHL team, they must report for at least one day. That means players can no longer be “sent down” to the minors and get recalled shortly thereafter, eliminating the possibility of “paper moves” for salary cap compliance.”

Answer: Every team in the NHL used the “paper transaction” to bank cap space. Sometimes, the Bruins more than others. I don’t think this changes much moving forward and puts everyone on a level playing field. I welcome the change and it was necessary.

Andy asks: How do you feel about Dans Locmelis making the big club out of camp? I see how well he has played internationally and in the AHL against players much older than him. He is my sleeper to have a great NHL career starting with the upcoming season. Thanks Andy

Answer: I’m a big Dans Locmelis fan—I’ve been hyping him up for three years now. I’ve consistently said that his international experience will serve him well. Could he crack the roster out of camp? From what I’ve seen so far, he’s not quite there yet. But things can shift quickly. September could tell a different story, so let’s see how camp plays out. I think he is a future NHL player, just not this early.

Mark asks: A lot of analysts seem to believe that Minten would make a better 3C than Poitras. Other than the size difference can you explain why? I think Poitras is the playmaker between the two of them, so is the assumption that he would be better as 2C?

Answer: I mentioned this earlier, but I see Poitras as having the higher ceiling, which naturally places him higher in the lineup. Minten, meanwhile, is more of a well-rounded presence—ideal for a third-line role. He brings defensive reliability and can contribute on the penalty kill, which is why I think he’s best suited for that spot.

Ben asks: Dom, did Don Sweeney make a mistake by signing so many 3rd and 4th liners to contracts? Most likely it will block the younger players – who are the team’s future – from getting ice time and as an added bonus took up most of their cap room. They needed scoring and instead they wasted money on players that won’t address their most pressing issue – scoring.

Finally, a lot of Bruins podcasters I’ve listened to seem to think that Lysell is a lock to make the roster next year. Do you agree? I’m not so sure about that. He was scratched in the playoffs for the Providence Bruins, which I don’t think is a great sign. What’s your take and what happens if he doesn’t make the team?

Answer: I don’t think this blocks anyone. The real question is, how many are truly NHL-ready? What this situation does is create an environment where players have to go out and earn their spots. And if they do, the team will find room for them. Take Fabian Lysell, for example—it’s rare to see a player perform better at the NHL level than the AHL, but it happens. Why? Who knows. What we did see was Lysell improving toward the end of his NHL stint, and maybe that came down to confidence. Personally, I believe there’s a roster spot waiting for him—it’s his to lose. But if he doesn’t make the team, then it’s off to Providence where he’ll need to put in serious work to fight his way back. That’s when the real questions will start to surface and he usually doesn’t handle that well. That’s when you have to start questioning his future.

Liz asks three questions: 1) Regarding Poitras, do you see the B’s trading him this summer?

2) Even if Poitras plays his ass off in camp, where do they put him? I know he’s played RW before, but he’s a more effective playmaker at C. There’s a serious logjam at that position now and it will only get worse next year when Hagens joins the team. The Bruins aren’t going to sit Lindholm or Mittlestadt with the $$ they’re making, so is it best for Poitras’ career to get traded to a younger team where he can get consistent playing time and grow with them? And does him being an RFA after next season influence the B’s decision at all?

3) Were you surprised that Merk resigned with the Bruins? I feel like Merk might feel duped since Sweeney went out the day after and signed about 10 bottom six players, which will make it damn near impossible for him to make the team. I can’t believe he would play in PVD again, so does he request a trade or was that Sweeney’s plan all along to sign and trade him?

Answer: 1) I’m open to trading anyone if the deal is right. There’s a lot of chatter happening across the league right now. I don’t believe the Bruins are actively shopping Poitras—they’re clearly fans—but if a trade comes along that improves the team now and for the future, they’ll have to make the move.

2) I agree—Elias Lindholm and Casey Mittlestadt aren’t coming out of the lineup. I always advocate for patience and letting things unfold through training camp. If Poitras makes a strong case, they’ll find a way to fit him in, just like they did a couple of seasons ago. And if Poitras is that good and much better down the middle, he could force one of them to the wing. I don’t know how much being an RFA affects their decision. Ultimately, you want to hold onto them.

3) I am not surprised that they resigned Georgii Merkulov. In fact, I tweeted a couple of months ago that Merkulov wanted to return for another opportunity. I don’t know if they plan on trading Merkulov and I find it hard to believe that he would request a trade when he wanted another opportunity here and agreed to a contract. However, in Boston’s case, they have to ice an AHL team as well and I think many fans lose sight of that.

Brett asks: With the sheer volume of bottom six forwards that the Bruins added via free agency, will players like Poitras, Minten, and Lysell be blocked out of the NHL roster, barring dominant preseason performances? Thanks!

Answer: Aside from Minten, I don’t see the others fitting into a fourth-line role—it’s just not their style of play. Minten, on the other hand, could handle that spot for a season before progressing. As for Poitras and Lysell, if they prove themselves, I fully expect they’ll be rewarded with roster spots and management will figure out the roster moves.

Greatest Hockey Team Ever Assembled?

1976 Team Canada

I’ve always had a soft spot for the 1972 Canadian team from the Summit Series against the Soviet Union. It was my first encounter with a true best-on-best showdown. But it wasn’t just about hockey—it symbolized something much bigger: East versus West, free world versus communism. The stakes felt immense, and the significance stretched far beyond the rink.

Was it really the best team ever assembled? I’d argue it wasn’t the strongest lineup Canada could have iced. Bobby Orr—arguably the greatest to ever play—was sidelined by injury. Bobby Hull, the most feared shooter of his era, was left out because of his move to the WHA.

Hull wasn’t the only casualty of the WHA exodus. Gerry Cheevers, J.C. Tremblay, Jacques Laperriere, and Derek Sanderson had all originally been named to Team Canada, only to be dropped after signing with the WHA. NHL President Clarence Campbell drew a hard line, insisting that only players under NHL contracts could participate. Even Canadian Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau couldn’t convince NHL ownership to reverse course.

When it comes to the greatest team ever assembled, I always find myself torn between two iconic squads—constantly flipping back and forth over which one truly deserves the crown. But there is also a third team that deserves a lot of attention.

Team Canada – 1976 Canada Cup

It was the inaugural Canada Cup – a true best on best tournament that featured teams from the United States, Soviet Union, Czechoslovakia, Finland and Sweden joining Canada.

That Canadian roster boasted an all-star lineup of defensemen—a true who’s who of hockey legends: Orr, Denis Potvin, Guy Lapointe, Serge Savard, Larry Robinson, and Jim Watson.

Canada’s firepower up front was just as formidable. The forward group featured a dazzling array of talent: Hull, Phil Esposito, Gilbert Perreault, Darryl Sittler, Marcel Dionne, Guy Lafleur, Rick Martin, Bobby Clarke, Steve Shutt, Reggie Leach, and more—each capable of turning a game on its head.

Rogie Vachon took the net and played in every game.

That powerhouse roster included 18 future Hockey Hall of Famers. Team Canada posted a dominant 7–1 record, including a commanding 4–1 performance in the round robin, where they lit the lamp 22 times and surrendered just 6. They capped it off by sweeping Czechoslovakia in the best-of-three final.

Canada’s only loss came during the round robin stage against Czechoslovakia, who edged them out with a 1–0 victory. Goaltender Vladimír Dzurilla was stellar for the Czechs, and Milan Nový scored the game-winning goal late in the third period.

Team Canada – 1987 Canada Cup

Canada had a defense with the likes of Ray Bourque, Paul Coffey, Larry Murphy, Normand Rochefort, Craig Hartsburg, James Patrick and Doug Crossman.

Leading the charge up front were the game’s two premier talents: Wayne Gretzky and Mario Lemieux. Backing them was a deep cast of elite forwards including Mark Messier, Dale Hawerchuk, Rick Tocchet, Michel Goulet, Glenn Anderson, and a host of other offensive threats.

Grant Fuhr guarded the net for the entire tournament.

Canada’s 1987 roster featured 12 future Hockey Hall of Famers—a testament to its star-studded depth. They went unbeaten in the round robin, collecting three wins and tying both Czechoslovakia and the Soviet Union. In the semi-final, they overcame the Czechs, setting the stage for an epic best-of-three final against the Soviets. Each game ended with a dramatic 6–5 score line, including thrilling overtime and double-overtime finishes in the first two games, with Canada ultimately claiming the series 2–1.

While the 1976 team was superior on paper, on ice results and in individual player success, 1987 was definitely more entertaining with more parity among the teams than in 1976.

Soviet Union – 1980

Yes, I remember the 1980 Miracle on Ice vividly. Even the greatest hockey teams stumble eventually, and for the Soviet squad, their misstep came at the worst possible time. That lineup was a powerhouse, stacked with legends like Valeri Kharlamov, Boris Mikhailov, Alexander Maltsev, Vladimir Petrov, Helmuts Balderis, Vladimir Krutov, Sergei Makarov, Alexei Kasatonov, and Slava Fetisov. And guarding the net was none other than the iconic Vladislav Tretiak.

Back in the ’80s, those names didn’t resonate with the average North American hockey fan—and truthfully, I didn’t fully grasp what I was witnessing at the time. It wasn’t until years later, when I had the chance to look back and really study that Soviet team, that I understood just how extraordinary those players were. Had they been given the opportunity to play in the NHL, we would have recognized their greatness much sooner. They weren’t just good—they were among the best in the world.

The 1980 Soviet Union hockey team is often regarded as one of the most formidable groups of athletes ever assembled—not just in hockey, but in any sport. Their dominance was not born from luck or fleeting talent; it was built on years of disciplined training, tactical precision, and exceptional skill nurtured by a centralized system that treated hockey like a science.

Under coach Viktor Tikhonov’s authoritarian style, the team trained relentlessly, sometimes isolating players in barracks for months. Their strategy emphasized puck control, seamless passing, and fluid movement, which often made North American systems look rigid by comparison. The Soviets didn’t just play hockey; they orchestrated it like a symphony.

Bruins Prospects Named to Team USA Summer Showcase Roster

Before diving into the player selections, let’s start with the participating teams: USA, Canada, Sweden, and Finland. Both the USA and Sweden have already announced their rosters for the event, which will be held in Minneapolis from July 25 to August 2. Canada and Finland will unveil their lineups at a later date.

As expected, James Hagens will suit up for Team USA, joined by William Zellers—another unsurprising selection. Will Moore shouldn’t surprise anyone at this point (but read Team Canada Below). A bit more unexpected is the inclusion of Elliott Groenewold, though it doesn’t come as a shock to me. I was a big fan of his play last season at Quinnipiac.

To qualify for the tournament, players must be under 20 years old as of December 31, 2025. As a result, Chris Pelosi—who participated last year—is no longer eligible. The same goes for Loke Johansson, who missed the cutoff by just 17 days and would otherwise be a lock for Sweden’s roster. Kristian Kostadinski, another member of last year’s Swedish squad at the showcase, has also aged out.

Of Course, the Bruins don’t have any Finnish prospects so, don’t be looking for them.

As noted, Canada has yet to announce its roster. Will Moore (American and Canadian Citizenship) seems to have the strongest case for an invitation, but is highly unlikely since he’s been invited by the Americans. Jonathan Morello and Dean Letourneau remain long shots.

Good luck to all the prospects and here’s to hoping they have a great showcase and get strong consideration for the holiday tournament in December-January.

*NOTE: Because Will Moore has not represented Canada or the USA at an IIHF tournament, he is eligible to represent the country of his choice. Once he commits to one country, he must represent that country at all future tournaments.

Top Undrafted Players Looking for NHL Rookie Camp Invitations

The Bruins are lacking in right-shot defensemen. Carson Cameron of the Peterborough Petes may be worthy of a rookie camp invitation. Photo by OHL Images.

The Boston Bruins came away from the 2025 Draft with a haul that can only be described as a major win. However, the momentum slowed during a rather underwhelming free agency period. Unless any trades arise, the front office’s final order of business is securing a deal with John Farinacci. Once that’s settled, attention turns to rookie camp and the upcoming Prospects Challenge—where today’s spotlight will shine.

It’s become a familiar pattern for the Bruins: with a large contingent of NCAA prospects unavailable for the Prospects Challenge and rookie camp, the team often turns to undrafted CHL free agents to round out the roster.

With 16 prospects currently enrolled in NCAA programs (six at Boston College), this season continues the trend. While it’s uncommon for the Bruins to offer contracts to their camp invitees, they have done so on rare occasion—and with that in mind, I’ve decided to highlight a few of undrafted players available that were higher on NHL Central Scouting’s list and independent scouting services.

I won’t do a deep dive into scouting reports here – there is plenty available online. But I did get some thoughts from a couple of NHL Scouts.

Louis-Antoine Denault – Goaltender – Quebec Remparts – QMJHL

The 6’8” – 206 pound goaltender appeared in 41 games for the Quebec Remparts. He posted 3.13 goals against average and .902 save percentage with 2 shutouts. NHL Central Scouting ranked him 5th among North American goaltenders.

He attended the Florida Panthers development camp.

I can’t recall a goaltender who relied on his size more than any skill to play his position. He was the biggest reason Quebec made the QMJHL playoffs. I’d be curious to see what he could do with better coaching.

One NHL scout said “He’s got size and he is athletic, but there is little to no technique and his skating won’t cut it for a goaltender at the pro level”.

Another scout said “For us, he is an AHL goaltender”.

Carson Cameron – Right Defense – Peterborough Petes – OHL

The 6’1” – 193 pound right shot defenseman appeared in 63 games for the Peterborough Petes scoring 7 goals and adding 23 assists in 63 games. He was ranked 137th among North American Skaters by NHL Central Scouting.

He attended the Florida Panthers development camp.

Just 18 of 68 games. That’s what the Petes won this season. To say everyone looked bad is an understatement. But many in the scouting community projected him as a top-4 defenseman at the pro level.

One NHL scout said “one of the most difficult players to get a read on this season. Things went south for the Petes early in games and he never got a chance to showcase himself.”

Another scout said “We didn’t see enough from him this season to warrant us using a pick, even with right shots being in big demand”.

Owen Conrad – Left Defense – Charlottetown Islanders – QMJHL

The 6’2” – 214-pound left shot defenseman appeared in 64 games for the Charlottetown Islanders, scoring 7 goals and adding 19 assists. He was ranked 102nd among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting.

He attended the Toronto Maple Leafs development camp.

He improved as the season progressed but certainly left everyone wanting more. I don’t know that there is enough defensively to make it as a shut down defenseman at the next level. At least not yet.

One scout said “He’s a pass for us. His decision making in the offensive zone is poor and only slightly better in his own zone”.

A second scout said “We did not see an NHL future”.

Lev Katzin – Left Wing – Guelph Storm – OHL

The 5’8” – 176-pound center/winger appeared in 44 games for the Guelph Storm and scored 16 goals while assisting on 32. He was ranked 142nd by NHL Central Scouting among North American Players.

Excellent playmaker who, despite the size, goes to the dirty areas and is fearless. Needs to be a better skater for his size.

Said one NHL Scout “Not a good enough skater for his size at the pro level.”

Another said “When you are his size, you better be an elite skater. He is not”.

Reese Hamilton – Left Defense – Regina Pats – WHL

The 6’0” – 172-pound left shot defenseman appeared in 59 games for the Regina Pats, scoring 4 goals and adding 10 assists. NHL Central Scouting ranked him 113th among North American skaters.

He attended the Seattle Kraken development camp.

One of the best skaters in the draft class and came into the season highly regarded before falling right out of the draft.

I asked one scout who had this to say “Some of the best skills in the draft class, especially the skating. But one of the smallest brains”.

A second scout added “Plenty of skill, but decision making lacks in all areas of the ice”.

Zachary Morin – Left Wing – Saint John Sea Dogs – QMJHL

The 6’1” – 181-pound left wing appeared in 56 games for the Saint John Sea Dogs scoring 16 goals and 20 assists. He was ranked 103rd by NHL Central Scouting among North American skaters.

He attended the Vancouver Canucks development camp.

There definitely are lot of tools in his arsenal. Slick hands and feet, agitator and can score from all areas. His biggest issue is consistency.

One NHL scout said “Whenever I saw Saint John, I didn’t know which Morin would show up. One day he can impact a game and then you wonder if he even dressed for the next three.”

Another scout said “For me, the most inconsistent player in this draft class”.

Lukas Sawchyn – Left Wing – Edmonton Oil Kings – WHL

The 5’10” – 168-pound right shooting left wing appeared in 66 games for the Edmonton Oil Kings, He had 15 goals and 40 assists and was ranked 69th by NHL Central Scouting among North American players.

He attended the Florida Panthers development camp.

Many had the winger with the non-stop motor pegged as a late third to early fourth round pick. And he’s got some offensive tools.

One NHL scout put it this way, “I think a lot of teams look at the Florida Panthers and think he’s too small.” I find that interesting since it was the Panthers that invited him to development camp.

Philippe Veilleux – Left Wing – Val-d’Or Foreurs – QMJHL

The 5’9” – 168-pound left wing appeared in 64 games for Val d’Or Foreurs. He had 40 goals and 47 assists and was ranked 91st by NHL Central Scouting among North American skaters.

Not invited to any development camp.

Veilleux finished third in QMJHL scoring as a 17-year-old. He has skill – plenty of offensive skill. But everyone looks at the size and turns the other way. Even Central Scouting, who shies away from smaller players, had him ranked in the top 100, Independent services higher.

Said one NHL scout “He’s not very big and is a perimeter player. The consensus for us is that we are aware of the talent but question how it translates to the pro game”.

Another scout said “Talented players like Veilleux who play on the perimeter do not find success in the NHL. May be an excellent AHL player”.

Here is a refresher about the rules:

Any player who went undrafted in the latest NHL Entry Draft and remains eligible for future drafts may be signed by an NHL team between the end of that draft and the beginning of their Major Junior (CHL) season—provided they played in North America during the previous season. If the player signs an Amateur Tryout (ATO) agreement, this signing window extends until the NHL season starts. Once their Major Junior season begins (NHL season for those on an ATO), and they have not signed an ELC, the player re-enters the next year’s draft.

When a team signs a player and then loans him back to his Major Junior club, the contract slides—meaning it’s delayed—by two seasons for 18-year-olds and one season for 19-year-olds. This allows the team to retain the player’s rights for four or five years respectively. In short: loaning the player to a CHL squad has no negative effect on the contract.

For players that are no longer eligible for the draft, they are unrestricted free agents and can sign with any team at any time.

Since the 2015 season, NHL teams have exercised this option more than 60 times. The Bruins, for instance, tapped into it back in 2017 when they brought goaltender Kyle Keyser onboard with a three-year entry-level contract. Keyser joined the team’s rookie camp that September and officially signed his deal in October 2023. Sadly, injuries hampered what once looked like an NHL trajectory.

Some of these players were on my list as potential targets.

It will be interesting to see what the Bruins do in the crease. Philip Svedeback will be back at Providence College and won’t be participating as well as the three goaltenders invited to development camp. Newly signed Simon Zajicek and Luke Cavallin have likely aged out of this tournament and that leaves the Bruins without a goaltender.

Right wing and right defense are the two other positions that the Bruins are going to have to address.

Obviously, there are other players available. I’ve listed the top players to go undrafted that surprised most of the independent scouting services. If I had to pick two that I would like to see given a chance it would be Denault and Cameron. Both fill a need.

Who is Matej Blumel?

Matej Blumel signed a one-year deal with the Boston Bruins. Photo my Matej Blumel – Instagram.

There was mixed reaction to the Bruins signing of Tanner Jeannot, Sean Kuraly, Michael Eyssimont and others as well as the trade for Viktor Arvidsson. But one signing I am excited about is Matej Blumel.

Matej Blumel: From Tábor to the AHL – The Rise of a Czech Sniper

Matej Blumel’s hockey journey is a testament to perseverance, development, and the quiet confidence of a player who has steadily climbed the ranks from Czech junior leagues to the doorstep of NHL. Born on May 31, 2000, in Tábor, Czech Republic, Blumel has emerged as one of the most intriguing prospects in recent years, culminating in his 2025 signing with the Boston Bruins. His story is not just about goals and assists—it’s about what may yet come.

Early Life and Family Roots

Blumel grew up in Tábor, a historic town in southern Czechia known for its medieval charm and strong sporting culture. His father, Petr Blumel, was a respected linesman in Czech hockey, which gave Matej early exposure to the sport’s intricacies and culture. His father’s involvement in the game likely played a pivotal role in shaping his discipline and understanding of the sport from a young age.

Matej began his youth career with HC Pardubice, one of Czechia’s most storied hockey clubs. He joined the organization at just 13 years old and progressed through all junior levels, showcasing a natural scoring touch and a relentless motor.

North American Transition and Draft Journey

In pursuit of higher competition and exposure, Blumel made the leap to North America, joining the Waterloo Black Hawks of the USHL for the 2017–18 season. His first year was modest—eight goals and 18 points in 50 games—but he exploded in his second season, tallying 30 goals and 60 points in 58 games. That breakout year caught the attention of NHL scouts, and in 2019, the Edmonton Oilers selected him 100th overall in the fourth round of the NHL Entry Draft.

Despite being drafted, the Oilers never signed Blumel, and his rights expired in 2022. Rather than dwell on the missed opportunity, Blumel returned to Czechia and made his professional debut with Pardubice in the Czech Extraliga. Over three seasons, he steadily improved, recording 61 points in 129 regular-season games and gaining valuable experience in playoff hockey.

Breakout in the AHL and NHL Debut

In June 2022, Blumel signed a two-year entry-level contract with the Dallas Stars. He began his North American pro career with the Texas Stars in the AHL and quickly made an impression. His rookie season saw him notch 44 points in 58 games, and he earned a brief NHL call-up, scoring his first NHL goal against the Philadelphia Flyers on November 13, 2022.

The 2023–24 season was even more impressive. Blumel recorded 31 goals and 62 points in 72 games, followed by a dominant 2024–25 campaign where he led the AHL in goals with 39 and finished second in overall scoring with 72 points in 67 games. His playoff performance was equally strong, adding 16 points in 14 games. These efforts earned him the Willie Marshall Award as the league’s top goal scorer and a spot on the AHL First All-Star Team.

Texas Stars head coach Neil Graham praised Blumel’s versatility and chemistry with linemates: “There’s a little bit of everything. They all work well below the goal line, they all can make plays through the neutral zone, and frankly, there’s a little bit of different dynamics, both offensively and defensively, that round each other out”.

Signing with the Boston Bruins

On July 1, 2025, Blumel signed a one-year, $875,000 contract with the Boston. The deal is a one-way contract, signaling the Bruins’ intent to give him a real shot at cracking the NHL roster. According to reports, Blumel was choosing between Boston and Pittsburgh, but it was fellow Czech and Bruins star David Pastrnak who reached out and convinced him to join the Bruins.

The two, along with David Krejci, played together representing Czechia at the 2022 World Championships.

While Bruins GM Don Sweeney hasn’t publicly commented on Blumel’s signing in detail, the move fits the team’s strategy of adding depth and upside during a transitional phase. Sweeney’s free agency spree included several depth signings, and Blumel stands out as a low-risk, high-reward acquisition.

International Success

Blumel has also made his mark on the international stage. He represented Czechia at the 2021 IIHF World Championship, scoring one goal in five games. In 2022, he returned to the tournament in Finland and played a key role in Czechia’s bronze medal run, tallying four goals and eight points in 10 games.

Scouting Report

Blumel is a 6-foot, 205-pound winger who shoots left and plays both right and left wing. His game is defined by:

Speed and Forechecking: Blumel is a swift skater who excels on the forecheck, pressuring defenders and creating turnovers.

Scoring Touch: With 70 goals over his last two AHL seasons, he’s proven to be a reliable finisher with a quick release and strong positioning.

Defensive Growth: In 2024–25, he significantly improved his defensive play, earning penalty kill minutes and showing commitment to backchecking.

Versatility: He can play up and down the lineup, and his ability to contribute on both special teams makes him a valuable asset.

Personal Life

Blumel is in a relationship with Adéla Hübnerová, and while he keeps his personal life relatively private, his social media presence shows a grounded and humorous personality. He’s known to share moments from his travels and downtime, offering fans a glimpse into the life.

Looking Ahead

This is a no-risk, mid level reward signing by the Bruins. His projection is that of a third line winger who can provide secondary scoring and play on both specialty teams. At the bottom end, he is an AHL player who can help Providence with plenty of scoring.

But with Pastrnak taking him under his wing, anything is possible.

Bruins Tender Qualifying Offers

Georgii Merkulov signs a one-year extension. Photo by Providence Bruins

The NHL Entry Draft, where the Bruins performed well, has concluded. Free Agency begins on Tuesday. In between, teams faced a Monday 5:00 PM deadline to submit qualifying offers to their restricted free agents to retain negotiating rights beyond July 1.

The Bruins had already signed Mason Lohrei to an extension, on Sunday announced Marat Khusnutdinov signed an extension and on a late-night news dump on Sunday signed Morgan Geekie.

The Bruins revealed today which players received qualifying offers. Those that did not are set to become unrestricted free agents on July 1.

Qualified were: John Farinacci. Just prior to the deadline, the Bruins announced a one-year two-way extension for Georgii Merkulov.

Not Qualified were: Oliver Wahlstrom, Jakub Lauko, Ian Mitchell, Jaxon Nelson, Daniil Misyul, Drew Bavaro and Trevor Kuntar

Misyul signed a contract with Lokomotiv Yaroslavl of the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). Extending him a qualifying offer would have ensured that the Bruins retained his NHL rights should he choose to return to North America in the future.

As I wrote about here, I would have opted not to extend a qualifying offer to Nelson, given his difficulty securing a regular spot in the Providence lineup. It seems the Bruins felt the same way. Regarding Bavaro, his departure appeared imminent following his trade at the AHL level by the Bruins.

I thought they might keep Mitchell around with such a young group of defenders in Providence to help guide them along. That will now fall on Billy Sweezey and whoever else the Bruins bring in. I’m not as surprised as most about Lauko as I felt the Bruins were going to decide between him and Khusnutdinov and when the Bruins announced an extension to the latter, the writing was on the wall for me.

I am however surprised about Kuntar. I thought he had a lot more to give than what we saw in Providence last season, but he never really got a shot as an every day player.

Bruins Announce Development Camp Roster – It All Begins Today

The Boston Bruins have unveiled their development camp roster as activities get underway today at Warrior Ice Arena. A total of 30 players are set to take part in both on-ice and off-ice sessions, with the exception of Ryan Walsh, who will be restricted to off-ice participation only.

The training camp roster includes nine invited players—three goaltenders, three defensemen, and three forwards. Overall, the group consists of four goaltenders, nine defensemen, and seventeen forwards. Notably absent from camp are Oskar Jellvik, who continues to recover from a season-ending injury, and Jackson Edward.

Here is a look at the full roster:

Conspicuously absent from the Bruins’ selections on Friday and Saturday were right wingers, right-shot defensemen, and goaltenders. And apart from the goaltenders, those positions remain unaddressed in development camp, highlighting significant gaps in the team’s prospect pipeline.

While it’s uncommon to address those roster gaps through development camp invites, it’s not unheard of. For instance, goaltender Albin Boija—an undrafted free agent who drew considerable interest in the spring—chose to return to the University of Maine for another year. He was on my radar for the Bruins back in March. Could this invite be the Bruins’ way of positioning themselves for a potential signing once his college season wraps up?

There’s clearly no shortage of centers—nine out of the ten are Bruins prospects, with just one invited player rounding out the group. A position switch to the wing seems inevitable some of them. However, only Dean Letourneau and Ryan Walsh shoot right-handed, which highlights a noticeable imbalance. Providence is facing a similarly concerning depth issue.

This might be the most skilled group the Bruins have ever brought together for a development camp. While the team has made significant strides in recent months to replenish a once-thin prospect pool, the current roster makes it clear that the job isn’t finished just yet. There is clearly more work to be done.

Sweeney Continues to Get Business Completed Ahead of Free Agency

Boston Bruins General Manager Don Sweeney is staying busy ahead of Tuesday’s noon kickoff for free agency, securing new deals for Henri Jokiharju, John Beecher, and Michael DiPietro as part of the team’s internal preparations.

Jokiharju has inked a three-year deal worth $9 million, carrying a $3 million average annual value (AAV). That figure marks a slight decrease from his current $3.1 million contract, set to expire tomorrow. Once this new contract runs its course, Jokiharju will become an unrestricted free agent.

Beecher has agreed to a one-year contract valued at $900,000, reflecting a slight dip from the $925,000 average annual value (AAV) of his entry-level deal. Once this new agreement concludes, he’ll become a restricted free agent with arbitration rights and will be eligible for a qualifying offer of $940,000.

Michael DiPietro has secured a two-year contract extension worth $1.625 million, featuring an average annual value (AAV) of $812,500. Originally set to hit Group 6 unrestricted free agency at noon tomorrow, DiPietro now benefits from an upgraded deal compared to his expiring one, which carried a $775,000 AAV. His previous contract was a two-way arrangement with a $200,000 salary at the AHL level. In contrast, the new deal is one-way, guaranteeing him $775,000 in the first year and $812,500 in the second.

One contract worth a closer look is DiPietro’s. The fact that it’s a one-way deal could signal one of two possibilities (according to some fans):

To start, the one-way nature of DiPietro’s contract might serve as a potential deterrent for teams considering a waiver claim if the Bruins try to assign him to Providence. The complication arises if multiple teams place claims—any team that successfully claims him wouldn’t be able to assign him to their AHL affiliate without first offering him to the next club in the waiver line. In other words, if Team X puts in a claim, they can’t simply stash him in the AHL, which reduces the significance of the salary as a disincentive.

Second, what does this mean for hockey’s biggest kept secret, an unhappy Joonas Korpisalo? Well, DiPietro is an unproven goaltender, at least at the NHL level. It might be premature to suggest giving him the backup role in Boston and exploring trade options for Korpisalo at this point. It might be more prudent to wait until training camp and see if DiPietro could push for the backup job in Boston. That of course is my opinion.

However, there are some whispers among some NHL execs that suggest Sweeney has explored the trade market for Korpisalo and continues to do just that.

Swapping out Korpisalo for DiPietro would free up roughly $2.2 million in cap space for the Bruins—flexibility that could prove valuable when the trade deadline opens tomorrow. However, if the move backfires, it might come with long-term consequences. Personally, that’s not a risk I’d be eager to take in July; I’d prefer to wait until October before making that call.

Bruins Sign Morgan Geekie to a 6-Year Extension

Morgan Geekie signs a 6-year, $33 million extension. Photo by NHL.com

Late Sunday night, the Boston Bruins revealed they’ve inked a six-year contract extension with Morgan Geekie worth $33 million. The agreement comes with an average annual value (AAV) of $5.5 million.

The deal breaks down as follows:

SeasonSalarySigning BonusClauses
2025-2026$5,250,000$2,250,000–
2026-2027$6,500,000$2,500,000NTC
2027-2028$6,500,000$2,000,00017 team NTC
2028-2029$5,500,000$1,000,00012 team NTC
2029-2030$5,000,000–6 team NTC
2030-2031$4250,000––

Locking up Geekie was the final major task on General Manager Don Sweeney’s agenda ahead of Tuesday’s noon free agency kickoff. With the deal done, the Bruins now have roughly $15 million in cap space to bring in a defenseman and two forwards—potentially re-signing their own restricted free agents at forward and Henri Jokiharju on the blue line.

The Geekie extension lands with a lower average annual value than many anticipated—coming in $1.1 million under AFP Analytics’ projection. It’s a balanced deal for both parties that could become a bargain for the Bruins if Geekie delivers a similar performance to his 2024–25 season.

Grading the Boston Bruins’ 2025 NHL Draft Class: A New Era Begins

The 2025 NHL Draft marked a pivotal moment for the Boston Bruins. With a rare top-10 pick and a clear need to replenish their prospect pipeline, General Manager Don Sweeney and his scouting team approached the draft with a blend of urgency and optimism. The result? A seven-player haul that could reshape the franchise’s future.

Let’s break down each pick, assess the value, and assign grades to the Bruins’ selections.

Round 1, Pick 7: James Hagens, C, Boston College

Grade: A

The Bruins struck gold with James Hagens, a dynamic center who was once projected as a top-three pick. Despite a slightly muted freshman season at Boston College (11 goals, 26 assists in 37 games), Hagens remained a point-per-game player on a stacked roster. His elite skating, vision, and playmaking make him a potential top-line center—something Boston has sorely lacked in its pipeline.

– Hagens fills a critical organizational need at center. 

– He’s already familiar with Boston, playing locally at BC. 

– His upside is immense, with comparisons to William Nylander.

Still, this was a home-run pick and a major win for a team in transition. It’s not often I claim a player to “immediately become the Bruins top prospect”. Charlie McAvoy was the last player drafted I said that about, but that is definitely the case with Hagens here.

Round 2, Pick 51: William Moore, C, USNTDP

Grade: A-

Moore was a projected late first-rounder to early second-rounder who slid to the Bruins at 51. At 6’3″, 181 lbs, he brings size, two-way ability, and a strong hockey IQ. He tallied 59 points in 64 games for the U.S. U18 National Team and was a standout at the U18 World Championship.

– Moore adds size and versatility down the middle. 

– He’s a strong skater with a high compete level. 

– Committed to Boston College, continuing the Bruins-BC pipeline.

This pick was all about value and upside. Moore could become a reliable middle-six center with penalty-kill potential or maybe even a top-six.

They could have looked at Cole McKinney at this spot who went two picks later to San Jose.

Round 2, Pick 61: Liam Pettersson, D, Växjö Lakers (Sweden)

Grade: B+

Pettersson is a smooth-skating, offensive-minded defenseman who led Växjö’s J20 team in scoring among blueliners. At 6’2″, 170 lbs, he’s lanky but mobile, with strong puck-moving instincts.

– Adds a much-needed puck-moving presence to the left side. 

– High hockey IQ and strong transition game. 

– Experience in Sweden’s top junior and pro leagues.

Pettersson is a project, but one with top-four potential if developed properly. I know the need is for right shot defensemen, but they were lacking at this point. They could have looked at Ivan Ryabkin here who went with the next pick to Carolina.

Round 3, Pick 79: Cooper Simpson, LW, Shakopee HS / Tri-City (USHL)

Grade: B

Simpson lit up Minnesota high school hockey with 49 goals and 83 points in 31 games, then added 8 points in 9 USHL games. He’s a pure goal scorer with a quick release and strong motor.

– High offensive ceiling. 

– Brings energy and scoring touch to the wing. 

– Could be a steal if he adjusts to higher levels.

Simpson is a classic boom-or-bust pick, but the Bruins can afford to swing here. As for offensive production at this point, you would have to look at Kristian Epperson who went 9 picks later to Los Angeles.

Round 4, Pick 100: Vashek Blanar, D, Czechia

Grade: B

Blanar is a 6’4″, 183-pound left-shot defenseman with intriguing tools. He’s raw but has shown flashes of offensive upside and physicality.

– Adds size and reach to the blue line. 

– Potential shutdown defender with development. 

– Good value at this stage of the draft.

Blanar fits the mold of a modern stay-at-home defenseman if he can round out his game. I’ve had to do a lot of asking around among European scouts who all assured me this was a very good pick at this point of the draft. I will trust their opinion as I can’t form my own at this point.

Round 5, Pick 133: Cole Chandler, C/W, US High School

Grade: B-

Chandler is a versatile forward who can play center or wing. While his offensive upside is limited, he’s defensively sound and positionally aware.

– Smart, responsible player with leadership traits. 

– Could develop into a bottom-six utility forward. 

– Brings balance to a forward-heavy draft class.

This is a safe, low-risk pick with potential value in a checking role. At this point, seven of the next 8 picks were defensemen. Clearly, the Bruins were not drafting for need on this day.

Round 6, Pick 165: Kirill Yemelyanov, F, Russia

Grade: B

Yemelyanov is a high-energy forward with a strong motor and defensive awareness. He’s not flashy, but he plays a responsible game and brings grit.

– Projects as a bottom-six energy player. 

– Good forechecker and penalty killer. 

– Adds depth and competition to the system.

Yemelyanov is the kind of player all teams’ needs in the playoffs—reliable, physical, and relentless.

Overall Draft Grade: A-

The Bruins entered the 2025 Draft with a clear mandate: inject high-end talent into a thinning prospect pool. They did just that, starting with the franchise-altering selection of James Hagens. The rest of the class is a mix of high-upside swings (Moore, Simpson), steady developmental bets (Pettersson, Blanar), and role players (Chandler, Yemelyanov).

Strengths of the Draft:

– Addressed organizational needs at center and defense.

– Found value in every round.

– Balanced skill, size, and character.

Areas for Improvement:

– No goaltender selected.

– Few “sure things” beyond Hagens.

Still, this draft class represents a turning point for Boston. If even half of these prospects hit, the Bruins will have laid the foundation for their next competitive window.