The Boston Bruins could probably use a little edginess on their team. The defensive corps is talented but is it physical enough? Can it withstand the rigors of the playoffs when the tension and the aggression increase? In recent playoffs, some would say that Boston gets pushed around by certain heavier opponents. The additions of Andrew Peeke and Parker Wotherspoon have helped but is this more about philosophy change than adding personnel?
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One prospect that intrigues Bruins fans more so for his growing reputation than his overall skill is 2022 seventh-round draft pick Jackson Edward. Edward is a 6-foot-2, 195-pound defenseman who was drafted for his tenacious style and a snarl that reminds hockey fans of the old days. Edward has owned his nasty demeanor which has resulted in multiple suspensions as a member of the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League.
This season, however, Edward showed a newfound offensive ability that helped lead the Knights to the Memorial Cup Final. During the regular season, Newmarket, Ontario native scored seven goals with 23 assists in 59 games In the postseason the assistant captain totaled 11 points in 15 games and was one of the best defensemen on the ice.
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But what really intrigues fans is Edward’s willingness to cross the line at times. Before the Bruins drafted him, Edward as given the following scout by Elite Prospects: “The physical style of Edward’s game leaps out immediately. He’s violent, and he uses that violence to emphatically kill plays at the blue line and end the cycle. If given space while receiving the puck, Edward often makes a positive play. He’ll even draw in forechecking pres- sure by skating towards it or cutting back, then hitting the gas pedal before starting the breakout”.
Last season, Edward scored just one goal and his act was more of a sideshow than showing the skill of a legitimate NHL prospect. But now, Edward is showing signs that the Bruins might have found a hidden gem at pick number 200 and someone who could bring a different dimension that the Bruins organization has been missing.
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If you want guys that play on the edge then you have to expect they will take the occasional stupid penalty or be suspended. On the other hand they also make the other teams play with their heads on a swivel when they’re on the ice. Personally, I love these kind of players. Like Brad or Tom Wilson, you hate them or to play against them but want them on your team. Every team, needs at least one of those guys on their team.