2021-2022 Season Projections
For all my season previews, we’ll be utilizing my 2021-2022 team and player projections. You can find much more background on these models here, along with more on assessing value of contracts here. We’ll preview the Boston Bruins in this post.
2021 Offseason
The Bruins’ offseason was highlighted by re-signing last season’s trade deadline acquisitions Taylor Hall and Mike Reilly. They also brought in Eric Haula, Derek Forbort, Nick Foligno and Linus Ullmark in free agency.
2021-2022 Season Preview
Roster Strength
The Bruins may have the best top line in the NHL and the addition of Taylor Hall completed a very solid second line. They are thinner in the bottom six, as well as on the back end. While Tuukka Rask won’t be manning the crease, at least to start the season, the Bruins goaltending looks like a strength.
Forwards
Taylor Hall returns to the Bruins with a new deal, completing a top six that is among the best in the NHL. With top line projected impact, Hall’s addition will help create matchup havoc for opposing teams. Not only that, the Bruins get good projected value from Hall with a very reasonable cap hit. The Bruins offseason additions in the bottom six look like more questionable moves, with projected value below league median.
Defensemen
A healthy defense corps will help the Bruins improve defensively over last season. Charlie McAvoy and Matt Grzelcyk will anchor the defense. Mike Reilly projects as a second pair defenseman and his new deal looks like a good value proposition. Derek Forbort, on the other hand, comes to Boston with a projected value below the 25th percentile and projected impact less than a 3rd pairing defenseman.
Goaltenders
With Tuukka Rask injured long term and without a contract, the Bruins brought in Linus Ullmark to fill the void. Ullmark had a strong season in Buffalo last winter and should provide the Bruins with quality starting goaltending. Jeremy Swayman also has a very strong projection, although it’s based on very limited NHL data at this point.
Team Performance
The Bruins look to carry over their strong form from the end of last season into 21/22. Boston looks like a contender for the Atlantic Division crown.
2021-2022 In Season Projections
Make sure to subscribe and check back for updates to the 2021-2022 season projections throughout the season. Watch for updates and enhancements to the models, updated player projections using 2021-2022 season data, analysis of trades and injuries, and more.
