Pavel Zacha has been a perfect fit on the Bruins second line
Prior to the start of the 2022-2023 campaign, the Bruins added to their top six with the acquisition of Pavel Zacha. As Boston has gotten off to a dominating start, Zacha has been at the center of their success. While he has an uncertain future, the former first-round pick is making the most of his first few months in Boston.
Through 28 games, Zacha has 19 points, including 16 assists. During his brief Bruins tenure, he has helped solidify the second line and has not been afraid of shooting the puck. He has already landed 43 shots on goal and added three powerplay points to his resume.
Additionally, the Czech native is stepping up when needed. In the five games that David Krejci has missed this season, Zacha has six points. One of his three multi-point games this season came in that span. Due to his impressive start, the veteran center is on pace to surpass his numbers from 2021-2022.
In 70 games for the Devils last season, Zacha had 21 points in 70 games. Part of why he was traded was because he needed a change of scenery. So far, it has worked wonders, and the Bruins are benefiting from it.
Although the season is far from over, Zacha is making an impact regardless of the situation. He has seen some time on the powerplay and recorded one game-winning goal. He hasn’t been afraid of sacrificing this body and landed 22 hits while blocking six shots. With free agency on the horizon, his value is rising with every game.
As the Bruins look to end their championship drought, the twenty-five-year-old will be crucial. The Bruins have been the best team in the NHL, partly because they are getting offense from every line. If Zacha can continue his recent play, a long playoff run could be in store, and his time in Boston could get extended beyond 2023.
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