It is no secret that the Boston Bruins need a prospect or two to make the jump to the NHL, particularly at the forward position. The Bruins have very little to show from up front in the last ten years of drafting. With Matt Poitras shining in the American Hockey League with Providence, the Bruins might have a top-six center to add to the lineup next season. After that, the prospect pool is pretty bare. One fourth-round draft pick might be emerging sooner than later, however.
Young center Dans Locmelis finished a solid two-year career at UMass-Amherst by signing a three-year, entry-level contract with Boston in a somewhat surprising move. The 21-year-old felt he was ready to turn pro, and he might be right after all. The 6-foot-1, 180-pound forward has burst onto the AHL scene and contributed two goals and six assists in his first two games with Providence, including the game-winning overtime goal with 14 seconds remaining on Saturday night.
Dans Locmelis joins a team that is fighting for a playoff bye in the AHL playoffs and immediately has become one of the better players on the ice. Locmelis and Poitras have spent some time together on the ice and already have shown chemistry. Typically, a young player would need an elite skill to become a legitimate prospect, and Locmelis has displayed good, accurate shot and high hockey IQ.
The Bruins have many question marks and holes to fill this offseason, and Locmelis might be a wild card in the roster-building process next season. The AHL playoffs are coming soon, and a reason to watch the Baby Bruins in the postseason will be Locmelis and his continued development as a young player climbing the prospect charts with Boston.
Season 4. Episode 39. The Off Season – Bruins Benders Podcast
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