Have the Bruins Found A New Fan Favourite?
When Don Sweeney and the Boston Bruins announced free agent signings over the summer, A.J. Greer wasn't a name that exactly jumped off the list. Despite being relatively unknown to many fans, Greer had an excellent training camp and preseason. The Canadian forward's successful preseason has landed him a spot on the Bruins' 3rd line.
Through the Bruins' first four games, Greer has not looked out of place one bit; in fact, the 25-year-old has continued his preseason form. Greer has nearly eclipsed his previous career total in points in the early markings of the new season with Boston. He has potted three goals and two assists in the four games played. He has also already piled up 14 hits on the season, playing alongside Charlie Coyle and Trent Frederic.
So, where exactly did Greer come from, you may ask? Before signing with the Bruins in the summer, Greer spent the previous two seasons playing with the New Jersey Devils organization. During his time with the Devils, Greer only saw ten games of NHL action, scoring 1 goal and adding one assist.
He was drafted in the 2nd round and 39th overall in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft by the Colorado Avalanche, the gritty forward spent his first three seasons with the Avalanche. However, he saw only limited NHL time, with Colorado appearing in 37 games scoring just one goal and adding five assists.
Don Sweeney and his pro scouting staff may have had some insight on Greer's playing style as he is also a product of Boston University. He spent two seasons with the Terriers before being drafted by the Avalanche. While Greer has limited NHL experience this far into his professional career, his production has been good in the AHL. Through 278 AHL games played,, Greer scored 85 goals and 110 assists for 195 points. He's been no stranger to the sin bin during this time,, as he has amassed 380 penalty minutes.
Time will only tell whether Greer can continue his impressive play and cement himself as a productive depth forward for the Bruins. Bruins fans enjoyed him putting the spoked-B on display after lighting the lamp for the first time this season.
His playing style fits with previous Bruins fan favourites. Greer plays with grit and like to throw the body something that can get the energy levels elevated in the Garden night in and night out. Don Sweeney may have found a diamond in the rough when it comes to A.J. Greer
