Background: The Big Bad Bruins have fallen from grace in recent years. Ownership was disinterested and malcontent. Rumour was the previous owner was going through a difficult divorce with a big settlement headed to the former owner's partner. It was all too much of a distraction as the East coast versus of the LA Dodgers type drama played out. The Bruins slipped hard and fast going from 6th ranked powerhouse team to 26th outhouse dumping ground. Boston was recently sold to Pharma Industries CEO Jack Daniels VII and the team has begun a rapid rebuilding process as a result.
This year: The new owner understands the core of the team must remain intact for the Boston to be successful and the GM intends to fortify the foundation with players that play Bruins style hockey. Cornerstone Tuuka Rask will be returning for his second season as the team's starter and first full season in that role after a strike shortened 2012-13 season. Bergeron, Marchand, Krejci, Lucic, Green and Chara will be responsible for keeping the opposition honest in front of Rask. The team looks poised for a strong season with Mr. Daniels on board.
Strengths:Starting Goaltender
Excellent depth at Centers
Adequate depth on Defense
Weaknesses:Lack of point-producing Defensemen beyond Chara and Green
Lack of depth on the Wings
Lack of serviceable backup Goalie
Needs:Star Right Wing
Future Outlook:The Bruins will have to stay focused throughtout the year to compete in the ultra tough Atlantic Division which features powerhouses
and last year's Franchise NHL Stanley Cup finalist
Notable Additions: Brad Marchand (via trade)
Vladimir Tarasenko (via trade)
Ryan Malone (via trade)
Blake Comeau (via trade)
Mike Green (via trade)
Carl Söderberg, SHL Goals leader (via trade)
Drew Leblanc, the 2013 Hobey Baker Award Winner (via FA)
Calle Jarnkrok (via FA)
Shane O'Brien (via trade)
Mike Komisarek (via FA)
Joshua Morrissey (via 2013 draft)
Rick DiPietro (via FA)
Dustin Tokarski (via FA)
Notable Subtractions:Tyler Seguin (traded)
Nathan Horton (traded)
Blake Wheeler (traded)
Jordan Caron (traded)
Johnny Boychuk (buyout to clear cap)
Tim Thomas (UFA)
Scott Laughton (traded)
One thing's for sure, the new Bruins owner knows how to clean house!