Providence Coach Reveals A Major Roster Shakeup In Boston

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Hunter Bowman
September 15, 2023 (3:20)

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The Boston Bruins kicked off their rookie camp at Warrior Ice Arena, setting the stage for the upcoming Prospect Challenge in Buffalo, New York, this weekend. A total of 24 players took to the ice, with 18 hailing from the Bruins organization and six eager invitees.

Their mission: to make a lasting impression as they prepare to face off against prospects from the Buffalo Sabres, Ottawa Senators, Montreal Canadiens, Pittsburgh Penguins, and New Jersey Devils. Ryan Mougenel, head coach of the Providence Bruins, holds high hopes for these budding talents.

He sees this round-robin tournament in Buffalo from September 15 to 18, as well as the looming training camp starting on September 20, as pivotal opportunities for these players to make their mark.

Mougenel shared his expectations, stating,

"There's a lot of guys with a lot of opportunity. A lot of guys that played for us in Providence last year � ready to take a step. I think there's attributes that they bring, and I think this tournament is an amazing opportunity for them to showcase those and maybe get a head start on some of the older guys, veteran guys that don't get those exhibition games early on."

He emphasized the importance of competitiveness and defining their playing style, saying,

"That's what we want to see. We want to see the competitive spirit. Figure out what your brand is for us. I think we have a lot of young players that did a really good job last year, especially in Providence doing that. I'm excited to see a lot of guys."

Among the prospects that have caught Mougenel's eye are Fabian Lysell, John Beecher, Georgii Merkulov, Mason Lohrei, and Luke Toporowski, all of whom he expects to shine in both the tournament and training camp.

Mougenel particularly singled out Toporowski as a potential surprise package, emphasizing his commitment to the game and rapid development as a professional.

The Bruins are set to undergo significant changes as they hit the ice for the opening night against the Chicago Blackhawks on October 11 at TD Garden.

The retirements of Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci this summer, along with key departures, have reshaped the roster.

However, the Bruins have made some strategic moves in the offseason, bringing in Milan Lucic, James van Riemsdyk, Kevin Shattenkirk, Morgan Geekie, Patrick Brown, and Jesper Boqvist.

Additionally, they've extended professional tryouts to Danton Heinen and Alex Chiasson. While these additions fill certain gaps, the prospects aren't automatically destined for Boston's AHL affiliate.

Mougenel emphasized the need for these young players to step up and go the extra mile:

"Guys see some of the holes. Some of the messages to some of the guys is that �you got to do what other guys aren't willing to do.' You come to a certain spot where everybody's capable, and it's just willingness."

He highlighted the growth seen in Providence last year and the determination of young players to elevate their game, underscoring the importance of their continued development.

Source: Nesn