JVR Speaks Out On How He Feels Being On The Bruins

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Austin Sabourin
September 6, 2023 (2:18 PM)

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After 14 NHL seasons facing off against the Boston Bruins, James van Riemsdyk is now gearing up to be part of their team, marking a significant shift in his career.

"Being on the other side of some pretty intense rivalries for a lot of years," van Riemsdyk shared with reporters following his first captains' practice with the Bruins at Warrior Ice Arena. "I've heard a lot of great things about a lot of the guys, and obviously, there are a lot of great players in the room, so I'm really looking forward to it."

Van Riemsdyk, a veteran forward, was drafted second overall in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft by the Philadelphia Flyers. He made his debut for the Flyers in the 2009-10 season, tallying 15 goals and 20 assists in his rookie year.

Reflecting on his history with the Bruins, even though the Flyers managed an epic comeback after trailing three games to none in the Eastern Conference semifinals in 2009, van Riemsdyk always regarded games against Boston as a significant challenge.

"Over the years, it was always kind of a measuring stick game," he recalled. "It felt like every single year since I've been in the league, they were a team that was going to have a chance to win. So, entering free agency, it was exciting to get a call from these guys and have the chance to be part of a team with so many great players and pieces."

While he was on the winning side of the epic comeback in 2009, van Riemsdyk was playing for the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2013 when the Bruins had their memorable "Game of the Decade" in the first round of the postseason.

Van Riemsdyk's decision to sign a one-year deal with the Bruins was driven by his desire to bring his veteran skill set to complement the existing core of players in Boston.

"This is going to be my 15th year and a couple of earlier playoff runs that went far, but not too many lately," he explained. "That's what it's all about now. It's just trying to find a way to win games and try to chase down the ultimate prize. That's what's exciting about a team like this with a lot of great players here."

Previously on Bruins Insider

Coyle Makes Controversial Comment Regarding His New Role

Brad Marchand Comments On If He Would Want to Be Captain

The Boston Bruins Officially Change Their Center Ice Logo

NHL players in this story
James Van Riemsdyk

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