Although the Bruins season ended in heartbreak last year, it was full of memorable performances. One of those came from David Krejci, who seemingly turned back the clock.
The Bruins veteran was a catalyst for the offense as he reached the 70 point plateau for just the second time in his career. While the Bruins battled injuries Krejci, was the one constant as he rarely missed time. With the regular season drawing closer, the former second-round pick will be looking to replicate last years success.
In 81 games last season Krejci recorded 20 goals and 53 assists. It was highest points total since 2008-2009 and third time in his career that he surpassed 50 assists. After a down season, the year prior the veteran center reminded everyone of his importance.
Additionally, Krejci was more aggressive than in years past. He has never been known as an elite goal scorer but had a higher shooting percentage of 14.4 and landed more shots on net than the year before. As a result, he was able to reach the twenty goal mark for the fourth time in his career. He continued to be a playmaker regardless of who was on his line and raised his game to another level.
Furthermore, Krejci stepped up whenever the Bruins needed him. When they were without star Patrice Bergeron, Krejci, filled his role and the Bruins barely missed a beat. In his first four games centering Brad Marchand and David Pastrnak, Krejci had seven points. Even without a key piece, one of the best lines in hockey was still a dangerous group.
When Bergeron returned, Krejci continued to be a source of offense on the second line. He was able to carry his success into the playoffs where he has thrived in his career.
Although the Bruins fell short of their ultimate goal, Krejci still had a solid postseason. The Czech Republic native had 16 points in 24 games including four goals. In the Eastern Conference finals, he had at least one point in every game of the series as the Bruins swept Carolina.
Unfortunately for the veteran center, he was unable to repeat that success against St. Louis. Krejci did manage to record an assist in the last two games of the series but was unable to score a goal. He also failed to record a point on the power play like he had in the previous two rounds.
As the Bruins look to return to the Stanley Cup finals, they will need Krejci to put up similar numbers. Their offense is at its best when the bottom lines are producing, and they don’t have to rely on their top line. Krejci showed that he can still be a valuable piece, even with constant line changes.
Krejci’s success will be determined by who the Bruins put on his wings. Jake DeBrusk will fill one of those roles however the second has yet to be determined. Regardless of who takes that spot the Bruins are at their best with a productive Krejci.
