Fans can now settle down after recent statement made
Patrice Bergeron's legacy in the faceoff circle is unparalleled, and his retirement leaves big shoes to fill for the Boston Bruins.
As the upcoming season approaches, the Bruins face the challenge of finding the right centers to take on this crucial role. Let's take a closer look at some potential candidates.
Charlie Coyle is entering his sixth season with the Bruins and showed promising numbers last year, winning 52.6% of his faceoffs. He's likely to center Brad Marchand and Jake DeBrusk, providing stability on the third line.
Pavel Zacha, in his first year with the Bruins, recorded career highs in goals, assists, and points. His faceoff percentage dipped slightly from the previous year, but he remains a strong option, especially on the power play.
Newly acquired Morgan Geekie is set to make his debut with the Bruins after playing for the Seattle Kraken. With a faceoff percentage of 49.2% last season, Geekie is expected to anchor the third line and bring his scoring touch to the team.
Trent Frederic had an impressive season, showcasing versatility as a center or winger. Although his faceoff sample size was limited, he won 66.7% of shorthanded faceoffs, making him a valuable asset in penalty situations.
Must read on Bruins Insider
The Bruins have also added Patrick Brown, Jesper Boqvist, and Jayson Megna during the offseason, offering Coach Jim Montgomery a range of options down the middle. Brown's career average of 56.1% at the dot stands out, providing further depth to the center position.
While no one can truly replace Patrice Bergeron's faceoff prowess, the Bruins have a solid group of centers to step up and contribute.
As training camp approaches, the battle for lineup spots will intensify, and each player will have a chance to prove their worth on the ice.
The centennial season holds great promise for the Bruins, and the center position will undoubtedly be a key factor in their success.
