Mark Kastelic tosses Luke Schenn around in a massive fight off the face-off
Mark Kastelic went toe-to-toe with Luke Schenn and both threw haymakers during a massive fight.
Boston Bruins head coach Jim Montgomery was looking for a spark as his team faced off against the Nashville Predators on Tuesday night. To shake things up, Montgomery adjusted his forward lines, hoping to ignite some energy. However, it was fourth-line center Mark Kastelic who stepped up and made an early impact.
Just over three minutes into the game, Kastelic dropped the gloves with Predators defenseman Luke Schenn, delivering a powerful message to the opposition. The 25-year-old didn't hold back, landing more than 10 heavy punches on Schenn without taking a hit in return. The fight instantly energized the Bruins, setting the tone for a physical and intense game.
Kastelic has already gained a reputation for being a tough, gritty player, and this isn't the first time he's made his presence known on the ice. Earlier in the preseason, he won over Bruins fans when he fought Connor Mackey during an exhibition game against the New York Rangers. His willingness to stand up for his teammates and play a physical game has made him a fan favorite in Boston.
Aside from his fighting ability, Kastelic has also been a reliable contributor offensively. In the six games he's played with Boston this season, he's scored two goals and added three assists, while averaging 12:23 minutes of ice time per game. His blend of toughness and offensive production has solidified his role on the team's fourth line, making him a key player in the Bruins' lineup.
Montgomery's line changes may have been intended to create a spark, but it was Kastelic's physical play that gave the Bruins the early jolt they needed against the Predators. His fight with Schenn further cemented his status as an important part of the Bruins' success.
The Bruins currently trail the Predators 1-0 in the second period.
