As the NHL roster freeze ends on December 28, 2024, the Boston Bruins face critical decisions regarding their lineup, especially in terms of addressing the third-line center role. In the meantime, Bruins head coach Joe Sacco has experimented with shuffling his forward lines, which has resulted in some noticeable chemistry, particularly with the second line. This has had a ripple effect on the team’s overall structure and has raised questions about the third-line center position, which remains a key concern.
The Surge of the New-Look Second Line
The key to success for the Bruins recently has been fine-tuning their lines and finding the right spark, something that has come in the form of the revamped second line. The combination of Charlie Coyle, Brad Marchand, and Elias Lindholm has turned out to be highly effective, both defensively and offensively. This line was instrumental in the Bruins’ recent win over the Washington Capitals, with Marchand praising the overall effort and defensive contributions that led to offensive opportunities. He specifically acknowledged Coyle’s significant role in both goals scored during the game.
Coyle’s shift to the wing has brought an added dimension to the line. As a player who excels both as a center and on the wing, Coyle provides a versatile and defensive-minded option alongside Marchand and Lindholm. He is known for his excellent puck protection, his ability to work below the goal line, and his strong defensive play, all of which translate into generating offensive chances. Over their last several games, this trio has been highly productive. Lindholm has posted five points in his last five games, including three goals. Marchand has maintained a ten-game point streak, while Coyle has tallied three points in the last two outings.
Though the trio has only spent 33:42 together on the ice, the impact has been significant. They have dominated possession and controlled the pace of play, effectively suppressing opposing offenses by allowing just 0.71 expected goals against. Their defensive execution has seamlessly transitioned into offense, with clear zone exits leading to scoring chances. In their win over Washington, both goals were a result of solid defensive work, with Marchand finding Lindholm for the game-winning goal and Coyle executing a breakout that led to another odd-man rush and goal.
While the second line’s success has been a highlight, it has also created a shift down the lineup, particularly with the third line. The question now becomes: Who should fill the third-line center role?
The Third-Line Center Dilemma
One clear solution is the promotion of Matthew Poitras from the Providence Bruins. Poitras has been performing exceptionally well in the AHL, with over a point-per-game average. His offensive skills could provide the Bruins with a much-needed spark, and his promotion wouldn’t require giving up assets. This move would bolster the third-line center role and strengthen the overall depth of the roster. However, if the Bruins decide against recalling Poitras, Mark Kastelic emerges as another potential solution.
Currently, the third line features Trent Frederic as the center, flanked by Justin Brazeau and Oliver Wahlström. This line has struggled to generate offense and control play. Despite their size and physicality, they have been consistently outmatched in terms of shot attempts and expected goals. Frederic, in particular, has not looked comfortable in the center position, with a faceoff win percentage of just 45.13%. He is better suited to playing on the wing, where he can use his physical presence and create more offensive opportunities.
To improve the situation, Kastelic could be the key. Kastelic embodies the Bruins’ physical and aggressive style of play, excelling at forechecking, skating fast, and not shying away from physical confrontations. He has also proven to be a strong center, boasting the highest faceoff win percentage (54.98%) among all Bruins centers, despite primarily playing fourth-line minutes. Kastelic’s ability to create offense and contribute defensively would complement Frederic’s skill set and give the third line a better chance to succeed. A pairing of Kastelic and Frederic could be a significant improvement, allowing Frederic to focus on his strengths as a winger while Kastelic anchors the center position.
Meanwhile, the fourth line, which features John Beecher at center, is functioning well and doesn’t require immediate adjustments. Beecher has proven himself capable of handling the responsibilities at center, and his performance in that role has been solid. The key is to ensure that Frederic is placed in a position where he can thrive, which likely means moving him back to the wing and allowing Kastelic to take over the third-line center spot.
Adjusting to the Absence of Pastrnak
Another challenge for the Bruins has been the uncertainty surrounding the status of star winger David Pastrnak, who left the game against the Capitals with an injury. Pastrnak’s absence has made finding the right line combinations even more crucial. While the second line has shown great promise, the Bruins will need to fill the void left by Pastrnak’s potential absence. This could involve further adjustments, such as promoting Kastelic to the third line, which could bring additional energy and balance to the lineup.
Until the Bruins make a decision regarding Poitras’ promotion, the most logical solution seems to be giving Kastelic a shot at the third-line center role. This move would allow Frederic to focus on the wing, where he can be more effective, and create a more balanced, effective lineup overall.
Conclusion
The Bruins have been successful in tweaking their forward lines, particularly with the emergence of their new-look second line. However, the third-line center role remains a key area of concern. Whether they choose to call up Poitras or shift Frederic to the wing and insert Kastelic at center, the Bruins need to make strategic adjustments to ensure their depth remains a strength. With Pastrnak’s status uncertain, finding the right combination of players will be essential to maintaining momentum and staying competitive in the Eastern Conference.
