A.J. Greer is providing an unexpected spark to the Bruins offense
Photo Credit: NHL.Com
Through the Bruins first four games of the season, their offense has been one of the best in hockey. As the Bruins have gotten off to a hot start, they have scored at least five goals in every game. While they are getting contributions every line, one player who has gotten off to a surprising start is A.J. Greer.
Less than three weeks ago, Greer was not guaranteed a roster spot. However, he fought his way into the lineup and already has three goals. Entering the 2022-2023 campaign, he had two goals in his first 47 NHL games. The Bruins winger is proving to be a great addition through the first week of the season.
Additionally, Greer has made a difference even when he is not putting the puck in the net. He has not been afraid to sacrifice his body and landed 12 hits. The Joliette native has also blocked two shots and provided a spark whenever he is on the ice. The Bruins couldn’t have asked for a better start from the 2015 draftee through four games.
While it is only a small sample size, the former Devil currently ranks third on the Bruins in points. On October 15, he had the first multi-goal game of his career. When he signed with Boston, it was not a move that broke headlines, but he has embraced the city so far in his return.
“I lived here when I was at BU. I went to the Sox games ... I went to a few Bruins playoffs games, “Greer told reporters “You look at Boston in general. They’re energetic people, people who are passionate.”
Greer has channeled that passion into his game and already has one of the Bruins best goal celebrations this season. After he scored the Bruins fifth goal in their home opener last week, Greer grabbed the spoked B crest on his black sweater and pulled it to his mouth. He then kissed the logo quickly and finished the sequence with a fist pump. His early success has also not gone unnoticed by his teammates.
“You root for guys like that, the guys that understand what a privilege it is to be here, “said Nick Foligno. “He doesn’t take one day for granted. We’re really thrilled for him.”
Due to his quick start, Greer has already become a fan favorite. As the season progresses, seeing what he does with this opportunity will be interesting. The former 39th overall pick has already set new career highs in goals and points. One thing for sure is that he won’t take any of it for granted.
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