Johnny Beecher is having an impressive preseason
Photo Credit: Providence Bruins
Over the last few years, John Beecher is a name that Bruins fans have become familiar with. In the first round of the 2019 NHL Draft, the Bruins selected the New York native with the 30th overall pick. At the end of last season, he got his first taste of AHL action and is now fighting to earn a spot on the Bruins roster.
After finishing his time at the University of Michigan, Beecher appeared in nine games for the Providence Bruins last year. In his brief AHL stint, the twenty-one-year-old had three goals and two assists. The former Wolverine showed why the Bruins selected him in the first round with his skating ability. That has carried into the preseason.
Beecher played a critical role on Saturday as the Bruins beat the Flyers 4-0. Beecher scored his first two goals of the preseason. While he only had two shots on net, he made them count and saw 1:16 of ice time on the power play. The former 19th overall pick won 20 percent of his faceoffs and shined alongside fellow prospect Marc McLaughlin once he let the game slow down.
After being held off the scoresheet, Beecher took a step back and let the game come to him. In the final twenty minutes of play against the Flyers, he was a different player.
“Coming out of the third period, I was not necessarily upset but just wanted more out of myself and kind of had to sit there and take a couple of deep breaths and realize I could do more,” Beecher told the media.
While Beecher was unable to light the lamp on Monday, he still made an impact. The Bruins prospect was able to land one hit and block one shot. He won 67 percent of his faceoffs, a significant increase from Saturday night. The University of Michigan product also saw more time on the power play and penalty kill.
With only two games left in the preseason, a decision on where Beecher starts the 2022-2023 campaign is quickly coming. So far in the preseason, Beecher has played to his strengths and flashed his scoring ability. Over the last few days, he has been a bright spot for the Bruins.
If Beecher does start the season in the AHL, he will have the opportunity to grow his game. When injuries arise, he could be one of the first prospects the Bruins call upon. Regardless of what the final roster is for opening night, Beecher has shown the impact he can make.
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