In the Bruins final game before the All-Star break, they got a much-needed win and glimpse of the future. On Tuesday morning, Boston recalled Jeremy Lauzon and Anton Blidh from Providence. The duo was impressive as they replaced veteran pieces such as John Moore. It is unknown if Blidh and Lauzon will return to the lineup after the break, however, Lauzon, in particular, provided the Bruins with a spark.
For Lauzon, it was not his first taste of NHL action as he has appeared in 18 games for the Bruins over the past two seasons. The former second-rounder is one of the Bruins top prospects and has excelled in Providence of late. In 43 games, the Canadian native has a career-high 13 points and 12 assists.
Lauzon with a bomb to tie it up #NHLBruins https://t.co/t9kgP075Uy
— Jamie Gatlin (@JamieGatlin17) January 22, 2020
Although Lauzon’s offense has been a welcoming sign, he has improved greatly defensively. He has excelled in all three zones and appears to be on the cusp of earning a regular spot in the Bruins lineup.
In Lauzon’s return Tuesday night, he had a plus-minus rating of +2 and logged 1:54 of ice time on the penalty kill. Head coach Cassidy showed his faith in the young defenseman as Lauzon leads the Bruins in time on the penalty kill. After Tuesday night, the Bruins defenseman now has two goals in two career games against Las Vegas.
Lauzon getting back into coverage, winning the battle, making the play and throwing Saarela down in the corner. He turns the net and skates the puck out, leading to Zboril jumping into the rush. Zboril gains the line and makes a nice pass. Both of these guys can play. #NHLBruins pic.twitter.com/yYbcnZDryC
— Bruins Network (@BruinsNetwork) January 13, 2020
Additionally, it was a continuation of what Lauzon has shown in Providence. The 22-year-old makes his opponents fight for every inch and look to shut down them down every night, reflected in his plus/minus of 18, which is plus-10 higher than last season.
Furthermore, Lauzon is quick with the puck and makes smart choices. He is not afraid to be physical as in two, NHL games he has already landed five hits. Lauzon is also willing to sacrifice his body as in 18 NHL games he has blocked 18 shots.
Although the Bruins have a crowded blueline Lauzon has set himself apart. He has looked comfortable in the NHL and could earn more playing time if the Bruins need a spark from Providence as they did Tuesday night.
When the Bruins All-Star break ends next Friday, they will embark on the most important part of their season. There will also be a lot of moving pieces as General Manager Don Sweeney tries to improve this team before the trade deadline. If Lauzon can continue his recent play, however, he may prove to be a solution to some of the Bruins problems.
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