Newly signed Bruins prospect impresses in pro debut
The Boston Bruins have signed a couple of prospects to entry-level contracts since the conclusion of the 2021-22 NCAA hockey season.
Most notably, forwards Georgi Merkulov and Johnny Beecher, who both made their professional debuts with the Providence Bruins of the American Hockey League. Goaltender Brandon Bussi also made his debut in the crease in Saturday's game against the Leigh Valley Phantoms.
All three prospects were noticeable in their debuts, but Russian Georgi Merkulov was very impressive right from the start of the game:
Merkulov, best known for his goal-scoring, assisted on a Chris Wagner goal on just his second pro shift. He finished the game with two assists, one shot on goal and four penalty minutes.
The 21-year-old wasn't done there, as he scored Providence's shootout-winning goal, showing off his goal-scoring ability.
He was given the game's first star after the 3-2 shootout win over the Leigh Valley Phantoms. Hopefully, it's a sign of things to come with the young, skilled forward.
