Many people criticize the Bruins organization for the lack of high-end prospects that have been drafted in the Don Sweeney era. Being a competitive team that makes the playoffs year in and year out for over a decade doesn’t leave you picking at the front of the draft like the Colorado Avalanche did for years. The Bruins have to rely on developing talent picked in the back of the first round and later rounds in the draft.
One of those picks is Ty Gallagher, who was selected with the 217th pick in the seventh round of the 2021 NHL Entry Draft. The Boston University defenseman, who just completed his freshmen year for the Terriers, came into his second development camp with a competitive edge as he looks to separate himself from others and stand out to the coaching staff.
Gallagher is Ready to Build on a Successful Freshmen Season
The 6-foot defenseman had a successful freshmen year at BU, where he appeared in 34 games and recorded five goals and 11 assists for 16 points. He was also recognized several times for his strong 2021-22 campaign, earning Hockey East All-Rookie Team, Hockey East Defender of the Week (Dec. 13, 2021), and two Hockey East Rookie of the Week titles (Oct. 25, 2021, Jan. 10, 2022).
Gallagher is committed to improving as he takes in everything at his second development camp, including all suggestions. Being able to grow as player, learning from veteran players and the coaching staff is the first step in the right direction for the 19-year-old as he continues to polish his game. “I’m just embracing all the tips and tricks the staff is giving me,” said Gallagher. “Sometimes a new set of eyes is the best thing for you, and I’m taking everything they give me to bring back to BU next year.”
Being on the smaller size, Gallagher knows he needs to get bigger if he wants to eventually play in the NHL and be successful at the next level. When it comes to specific things he would like to work on while at Warrior Ice Arena, he kept it simple, saying, “I want to get bigger, faster, stronger,” while noting that each year and at each new level, the skill and size of the players continues to improve.
Gallagher Models His Game After a Fellow BU Terrier
When it comes to following a current Bruin, Gallagher studies fellow Boston University Terrier Charlie McAvoy, Boston’s top defenseman and one of the best in the league. “I try to model my game after McAvoy,” said Gallagher. “It’s hard to be as good as him, but he’s a BU guy, and just the way he carries himself around the rink and around Boston is great.” If Gallagher can become half the player McAvoy has become at only 24 years old; the Bruins will be in good shape as Gallagher would be an excellent addition one day alongside the Bruins’ top defenseman prospect Mason Lohrei.
The Michigan native already has a Boston mindset, as he added that he fits into the Bruins organization with his winning mentality and penchant for hard work. “I’d like the fans to know that I’m a hard worker and I’m going to do what it takes to be successful,” said Gallagher. “And I like to win, I’m a competitive guy.” Gallagher certainly checked all the boxes when speaking to the media, as he seems ready to work and make a difference for a franchise that needs to get younger and develop prospects.
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