The Boston Bruins have the seventh overall pick in this year’s NHL Draft, and they have the opportunity to make the most culturally significant selection on draft night.
Last year, the Boston Bruins lost in six games to the Florida Panthers in Round 2 of the playoffs, despite being the Atlantic Division’s second seed. This year, they placed 28th in the NHL, giving them the opportunity to select a prospect who they believe would usher in a new era in Boston, and among this year’s youthful talent, Soo Greyhounds centerman Brady Martin is perhaps the best fit for the classic Bruins template.
When this year’s Trade Deadline ended, the Bruins were one of the top sellers, both on the roster and culturally. None of the moves made by Bruins general manager Don Sweeney were more symbolic of the beginning of a new chapter than the Charlie Coyle, Brandon Carlo, and, of course, Brad Marchand transactions.
These players were popular not only because of their physical, pesky playstyle, but also because they resembled some of the franchise’s greatest players, like Kenny “the Rat” Linseman, Mike Milbury, and Cam Neely. Neely is now Boston’s President, and you know he’ll have a role in who the Bruins pick on draft night. Because of his playstyle as a hard-hitting scorer in his prime and Boston’s fondness for blue-collar athletes, you can guarantee Martin will be on the Bruins’ radar in the first round if he is still available.
How can he not be? According to CHL.ca, the Elmira, Ontario native’s two-hundred-foot game, quick release, and clever hands helped him score 72 points in 57 games this season, ranking him second in Greyhound scoring. He was also one of Canada’s greatest players at this year’s U18 World Junior Championship, where Canada won gold. Martin’s 11 points in seven games ranked second on Team Canada and tied for sixth in tournament scoring. He earned the top plus-minus in the tournament and finished tied for the most penalty minutes, according to EliteProspects.com.
Martin’s skill comes second to his work ethic and aggressive playstyle, which have literally produced scoring opportunities for the 6-foot, 187-pound center, who is regarded as the finest hitter in his draft class. The combination of skill and nastiness is what has propelled him to the top ten of this year’s selection projections and distinguishes him from other prospects. His upbringing has influenced his playing technique.
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