2009-10 NHL preview: Boston Bruins

In the 2008-09 season the Boston Bruins had the best record in the eastern Conference. That distinction does not come without its rewards and the Bruins hauled in many over the summer. They have the reining Coach of the year, best defenseman, and best goalie. Of course those award do little to soothe the wounds of losing Game 7 in the Eastern Conference Semifinals. With all that in mind little is different about the Bruins this year.

In fact the organization gave General Manager Peter Chiarelli a four year extension for his efforts last season. With a great club, and good chemistry he did little tinkering with the Bruins for the coming NHL season. Up front they did trade away Phil Kessel to Toronto, but they added a lot of depth and feature six skaters who scored more than 20 goals a year ago.

While this team has a talented group of veterans that include 41 year old Mark Recchi, they are also counting on productive season from a few younger players. Recchi return to the Bruins for a one last shot at a third Stanley Cup title, while the Bruins will for prospect Vladimir Sobotka to step into the opening night roster and have an impact. They are also banking on Sophomore Byron Bitz competing in a full season and showing some of the promise he did last year and in the playoffs.

Additions- C Steve Begin, D Drew Fata, C Drew Larman, D Dereck Morris, G Dany Sabourin, and C Trent Whitfield

Subtractions- D Shane Hnidy, D Steve Montador, LW Jeremy Reich, and D Aaron Ward