Over the past few years, Matt Grzelcyk has become a mainstay on the Bruins’ blueline. The Charlestown native made his NHL debut during the 2016-2017 campaign and has since appeared in 60-plus games each season. Through 66 games this year, he has again been a solid piece as the Bruins currently own the top spot in the Eastern Conference. While there is still about a month left in the regular season, it has been Grzelcyk’s best.
So far this season, the Boston University product has blocked 65 shots and landed 53 hits, both of which are career-highs. He has set a career-high in ice time with 18:03 and already attempted 203 shots this season. While he has continued to improve defensively, he has also been effective at the other end of the ice.
Third of the season for Matt Grzelcyk, doubling Boston's lead!#NHLBruins pic.twitter.com/gLVRsUBgnM
— Hockey Daily 365 l NHL Highlights (@HockeyDaily365) February 29, 2020
Through 65 games this year, Grzelcyk has 16 assists and 19 points, both of which are career-highs. He has three goals, matching his career-best, and recorded the first short-handed point of his career. With free agency on the horizon, he has shown the Bruins how valuable he can be regardless of the situation.
Additionally, Grzelcyk has excelled despite having multiple defensive partners. As of late, he has formed a formidable duo with rookie Jeremy Lauzon, but he has also spent over 100 minutes this season with Charlie McAvoy, John Moore, and Torey Krug.
Noted Bruins enforcer Matt Grzelcyk pic.twitter.com/JQETP0TEqR
— Evan Marinofsky (@EvanMarinofsky) February 26, 2020
While Grzycelcyk’s offensive numbers have seen a boost, he has been less aggressive than in years past. So far this year, the young defenseman is shooting the puck below three percent for the first time in his career. He has, however, been more productive on the powerplay, where he has recorded a career-high six points this season.
Furthermore, Grzelcyk has proven to be an effective piece in the playoffs as last year he had eight points in 20 games. The Bruins are hoping that he can replicate last year’s success when the postseason begins just over a month from now.
Although free agency is months away, Grzelcyk has already put himself in a good position. While he will not require a deal such as Torey Krug, his constant improvement will draw interest from many teams. A lot can change in the coming months but for the Bruins, Grzelcyk’s growth has been a welcoming sign.
