Coming into this season, the expectations were high for Charlie Coyle. After arriving in Boston at the trade deadline last year, the Weymouth native was expected to play a key role on the third line. Coyle got off to a slow start this year but with injuries to key players such as Torey Krug, Jake DeBrusk, and Patrice Bergeron, the former first-round pick has provided must needed offense.
In 20 games this season, the 27-year-old has four goals and six assists. After a slow start, Coyle has at least a point in four consecutive games. He has also seemingly rediscovered his scoring touch as he has scored in two straight games. With the Bruins’ injury list seemingly growing by the day, his offense has been a welcoming boost.
Additionally, Coyle showcased his offensive potential last postseason with a stellar run. In 24 postseason games, he had nine goals and seven assists. Coyle was also productive on the man advantage, where he had four points including two goals. The Massachusetts native stepped up when needed most and became one of the Bruins’ most dangerous offensive weapons.
.@CharlieCoyle_3 gets us started.#NHLBruins pic.twitter.com/VvEBhh1faM
— Boston Bruins (@NHLBruins) November 16, 2019
Coyle’s impressive postseason performance only raised expectations which he has recently started to fulfill. Although Coyle has seen time on the second line lately, he will probably return to the third line once the Bruins are healthy. They will need his offensive touch in the bottom lines where he has played well alongside side the Bruins younger wingers such as Anders Bjork.
Although Coyle has not reached the 20 goal mark or 50 point plateau in two seasons, he still has the potential to do so. He has looked more comfortable as the season has gone on, and his shooting percentage is up compared to last year.
Due to Coyle’s recent stretch, he has the sixth-most points on the Bruins’ roster. He also has the fifth-most points of all forwards on the team. That is what the Bruins expect of Coyle and will need to be successful. Coyle’s play will be essential as they try to avoid having to rely on the trio of Bergeron, Marchand, and Pastrnak on offense.
While the season is far from over, the Bruins are in the midst of a stretch that could define them. With key players injured, the defending Eastern Conference champions will need other players to step up. So far, Coyle has answered the challenge and provided this team with offense when needed the most.
