As the Boston Bruins look towards the future, they have many prospects in Providence looking to make their mark. One player who is just beginning his professional career is Jack Ahcan, who signed a two-year entry level contract with the team in May. The St. Cloud State product is coming off an impressive college career and could rise quickly through the system. The Bruins are hoping he can continue to improve and earn a spot in the near future.
In four seasons at St. Cloud, Ahcan was impressive offensively as he recorded 103 points in 144 games. The Minnesota native made history in becoming just the third defenseman in school history to score 100-plus points. In addition to being impressive offensively, he was a leader and named team captain for his senior year. He also played for the USA at the World Juniors in 2016-2017 and had one assist in seven games.
The Bruins have signed NCAA free agent Jack Ahcan. In 33 games for St. Cloud State this past season he had 7 goals and 18 assists. pic.twitter.com/BCkM7HISYw
— Jamie Gatlin (@JamieGatlin17) March 26, 2020
Ahcan has drawn a lot of comparisons to former Bruins defenseman Torey Krug. Like Krug, he offensive-minded and not afraid to take a shot. The young defenseman is also an unselfish player; during his time in college he recorded 82 assists. Ahcan was also not afraid to sacrifice his body, as in that span he blocked 206 shots.
The 23-year-old has already had experience playing alongside some players on the Bruins roster. In 2017, Ahcan was a teammate alongside Charlie McAvoy on the US National team that earned a gold medal. Given the Bruins depth defensively, it is unlikely that the two will both be in Boston this upcoming season. Ahcan is more than likely a year or two away, though injuries could quicken that timeline. The Bruins also currently have just one defenseman under contract past the 2022-2023 season in Matt Grzelcyk.
One reason Jack Ahcan could excel at the next level— his speed and skating. Here’s an example of Ahcan turning his own goal, sticking with the play and turning the jets on. He catches up to the puck and pressures Denver’s layers. Speed + tenacity = possible mistakes. #NHLBruins pic.twitter.com/9Z2TmmoAUb
— Bruins Network (@BruinsNetwork) October 27, 2020
Regardless of how next season plays out, Ahcan has a bright future in Boston. His game should only improve in Providence and the Bruins will need his scoring touch down the road. The St. Cloud product is an underrated defender with the skillset to be successful in the NHL. His play will be something for fans to watch as he gets closer to making his NHL debut.
While the Bruins blueline is full of talent, there is more waiting in Providence, and players like Ahcan are just getting started.
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