Jesper Boqvist carving out a role on the Bruins fourth line
During February, the Boston Bruins struggled mightily to close out games. While the last few weeks have been full of frustrating finishes, there have been a few bright spots. That includes Jesper Boqvist, who is carving out a role on the Bruins fourth line.
In 26 games this year, the 25-year-old has scored four goals and dished out six assists. He has been a point machine of late, with at least one point in four out of his last five games. Due to his play, the Bruins fourth line has become a strength.
While Boqvist has provided a spark offensively, that is one of many ways he is making an impact. The former second-round pick has blocked nine shots and recorded 34 hits. Although he may not be the most intimidating presence on the ice, Boqvist has not been afraid of sacrificing his body.
His play has not gone unnoticed by Bruins head coach Jim Montgomery.
“ I think he's averaging something in the last six to eight games - probably two to three more minutes, “ Montgomery told reporters on Sunday night. “And this is what this league is about...you play well, you earn more minutes, you gain trust with coaches especially."
Due to his play, Boqvist has been hard to keep out of the lineup. He has been on the ice for 15 goals for and five against. That is one of the best marks on the team, with 21 games left in the regular season.
As the playoffs inch closer, the Bruins roster will look slightly different. The trade deadline is just weeks away and Boston is searching for upgrades. Regardless of how the roster changes, Bovqist is making himself irreplaceable.
Follow Jamie on Twitter @JamieGatlin17
For additional Red Sox, Bruins, Patriots, MLB and NFL content follow Beyond the Monster on Twitter @BeyondtheMnstr