In a generous move, the Boston Bruins have granted rookie sensation Matthew Poitras a leave of absence to represent Canada at the International Ice Hockey Federation's World Junior Championship of Hockey. This decision serves as both a unique opportunity for the young player and a strategic move by the Bruins to foster his development through participation in a best-on-best international tournament.
However, as Poitras embarks on this exciting journey, challenges have surfaced. Head coach Alan Letang, not one to mince words, expressed disappointment in Poitras' performance during the preparatory phase for the tournament. Letang emphasized his expectations for improvement, acknowledging that both the coaching staff and the player anticipate a better showing.
"I expect him to be better," said Letang. "He probably expects himself to be better. We know he'll be better."
Despite Poitras admitting to a subpar performance, the circumstances deserve consideration. His late arrival in Sweden, coupled with limited time to adjust to the time zone, likely contributed to his underwhelming play. Poitras acknowledged,
"Legs didn't feel great, but just keep building."
Letang revealed that other players needed 2-3 days to fully adjust and regain their normal level of play, implying similar expectations for Poitras. As the Bruins' rookie navigates the international tournament, the spotlight intensifies, and the pressure mounts for him to rise to the occasion.
