The Boston Bruins have had a strong season, clinching a playoff spot and currently sitting at the top of the Eastern Conference standings. However, as the playoffs approach, it’s important for teams to have depth and insurance in case of injuries. That’s why the Bruins should consider signing a former division rival blue liner to a professional tryout contract (PTO) this summer.
One name that comes to mind is Kevin Shattenkirk, who has spent the past two seasons with the New York Rangers. Shattenkirk is a skilled defenseman with a strong offensive presence, and his addition to the Bruins’ roster could provide valuable depth and experience.
First and foremost, Shattenkirk is a proven player in the NHL. He has played in over 600 regular season games and has accumulated 383 points, making him one of the top-scoring defensemen in the league. He also has 68 playoff games under his belt, including a trip to the Stanley Cup Finals with the St. Louis Blues in 2016.
Not only does Shattenkirk bring experience, but he also brings a strong defensive game. He has consistently been a top-pairing defenseman throughout his career and is known for his ability to shut down opposing offenses. With the Bruins’ strong defensive core, Shattenkirk would fit right in and provide a reliable option in case of any injuries.
But perhaps the most intriguing part of signing Shattenkirk on a PTO is the potential for a redemption story. After signing a big contract with the Rangers in 2017, Shattenkirk struggled to live up to expectations and was ultimately bought out by the team this past summer. A PTO with the Bruins could give him a chance to prove himself once again and potentially earn a spot on the roster for the upcoming season.
The Bruins have had success with PTOs in the past, most notably with Jarome Iginla in the 2013-2014 season. Iginla joined the team on a PTO and ended up being a crucial piece in their run to the Stanley Cup Finals. While Shattenkirk may not have the same impact as Iginla, he could still provide valuable depth and potentially surprise everyone with a strong performance.
Another factor to consider is the Bruins’ current salary cap situation. With several key players set to become free agents this summer, including Torey Krug and Zdeno Chara, bringing in Shattenkirk on a PTO would allow the team to assess their options and make decisions based on performance rather than financial constraints.
Of course, there are risks involved with signing any player to a PTO. Shattenkirk’s recent injury history and his struggles with the Rangers may raise some concerns. However, considering the potential benefits and the fact that it would only be a short-term commitment, the Bruins have little to lose by giving him a chance.
In conclusion, the Boston Bruins should seriously consider signing Kevin Shattenkirk to a PTO this summer. His experience, defensive abilities, and potential for redemption make him a valuable addition to the team. With the playoffs on the horizon and the possibility of key players leaving in free agency, having Shattenkirk as insurance could prove to be a smart move by the Bruins. Let’s hope we see him in the black and gold next season.