4 bold player predictions for the 2023-24 Boston Bruins season

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Hunter Bowman
September 10, 2023 (5:33 PM)

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As September rolls in, we're inching closer to the 2023-24 NHL season. The Boston Bruins are gearing up for training camp on Sept. 20 at Warrior Ice Arena, but it's going to be a bit different this time around.

They'll be missing both Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci, their top two centers. These guys were not only ace face-off men but also skilled playmakers.

Now, the big question is, how will the Bruins fare offensively without their top centermen? It's a bit uncertain, but it's prediction time as we look ahead to the 2023-24 season.

1. Jake DeBrusk Scores 30-Plus Goals:

Jake DeBrusk is set for a significant season. You might wonder why this is a bold prediction, given that he's hit 27 goals before.

Well, this season, he won't have Bergeron by his side, which played a role in his previous success. He'll have Pavel Zacha or Charlie Coyle as his centers � not exactly known for their playmaking abilities.

DeBrusk's in a contract year and is keen on staying in Boston. If history is any indicator, GM Don Sweeney likes to secure contracts before the season starts. A 30-plus goal season could pave the way for DeBrusk's future success.

2. Charlie McAvoy Has 50-Plus Assists:

With Bergeron and Krejci gone, scoring might not be as easy. The Bruins seem poised for more 2-1 or 3-2 games this season, relying heavily on their defense and goaltending.

Charlie McAvoy, their star offensive defenseman, will be crucial to the team's success. He's set to lead the top power-play unit, which needs to produce.

Given his prowess in transition, McAvoy can dish out assists. Boston needs its defense to step up, and McAvoy can make it happen. If he stays healthy, 50 assists are a real possibility.

3. Morgan Geekie Scores 20-Plus Goals:

Zacha had a breakout season last year with an expanded role in Boston. Now, they're banking on Morgan Geekie to do the same.

Geekie, signed to a two-year deal, had nine goals last season with the Seattle Kraken. He's a wildcard at training camp, capable of playing various positions.

He won't have the luxury of star linemates like Krejci and Pastrnak, but with an increased role in Boston, he could shine. Keep an eye on him, as he might surprise us with consistent goal-scoring in 2023-24.

4. Jeremy Swayman Wins More Games Than Linus Ullmark:

All eyes will be on Linus Ullmark, last season's Vezina Trophy winner. However, replicating that performance is a tall order.

Jeremy Swayman quietly had a strong season last year, and he's playing on a one-year contract � that's motivation. It's tough to predict who'll get more wins, as it depends on defensive support and forward scoring.

But here's a hunch: Swayman could clinch 30-plus wins and establish himself as the go-to goalie this season.

With these predictions in mind, the Bruins have some challenges ahead, especially in a competitive Atlantic Division and Eastern Conference.

Making it to the playoffs won't be easy, but if these forecasts come close to reality, they just might have a shot.

Source: Thehockeywriters