Post-Game Thoughts: Bruins 3, Jets 2

· Debrusk-Coyle-Steen played excellent.

o For a team that seems to have depth scoring issues year in and year out, the performance of the middle six has been a great development for the Bruins over this recent hot streak. Today, it was the third line of Jake DeBrusk (1 assist)-Charlie Coyle (1-1-2)-Oskar Steen (1 goal) that stood out the most. Coyle had a dominant performance at both ends. DeBrusk and Steen were especially tenacious on the forecheck, putting pressure on the Jets D with their speed and creating turnovers. This was a good showing from this trio.

· Tuukka is still shaking off the rust

o After three appearances for the Bruins since his return, I think it is fair to say that Tuukka would have benefitted from a few tune up games in Providence. Though Brandon Carlo did not make a particularly good play (I don’t think he played very well all afternoon), the goal by Jansen Harkins on the first shot on goal for the Jets was very weak. Tuukka has to have that. Tough to blame him for the double deflection on the Andrew Copp goal late in the first. Though he did not allow another goal after that, he never really looked totally comfortable in net. It seems as if it still going to take a little more time.

· Derek Forbort: The Closer

o While Derek Forbort has been the target of criticism among some Bruins fans due to his new contract and no frills game, the final minute of todays game shows why Don Sweeney & Co. targeted him this offseason. After Tomas Nosek took a high sticking penalty to put the Jets on the PP down one, Forbort was out there for the rest of the game. He defended well and blocked multiple shots, helping to preserve the lead and secure the victory. He also picked up an assist on Charlie Coyle’s second period goal. He is not flashy, but he is effective in the right role.

· Pasta….still hot.

o Another game, another goal for David Pastrnak, who scored the eventual game winner on a rocket of a one timer 4 minutes into the 3rd period. After only scoring 8 goals through December 31st, Pasta has been a man reborn since the start of 2022. He has 11 goals this month and is back on pace for 40+ goals. The Bruins a different team when Pasta is scoring like Pasta.

· Andrew Copp: potential Bruins trade target?

o No disrespect to Erik Haula, but it is no secret that the Bruins need/want to upgrade the 2LC position. I wondered on Twitter if Andrew Copp might fit the bill? (Of course he scored right after this)

The 27 year old is having another productive season with 27 points in 37 games. He’s big bodied at 6’1 206 lbs., and offers the versatility of playing both LW and Center. A pending UFA, Copp might be the type of player the Bruins fall back on if they miss out on the likes of Tomas Hertl and Claude Giroux. He would be a good addition.