As the NHL pauses for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina, Italy, the Boston Bruins find themselves in a playoff spot after a strong turnaround season. While star players like David Pastrnak and Charlie McAvoy garner much of the attention, several under-the-radar Bruins have been instrumental to the team's success. Under the guidance of first-year head coach Marco Sturm, these players have consistently delivered, exceeding expectations and providing valuable contributions on both ends of the ice.
One such player is Marat Khusnutdinov. Acquired in a trade with the Minnesota Wild, Khusnutdinov has quickly become a key component of the Bruins' forward lines. His blend of speed and skill allows him to consistently win puck battles and create scoring opportunities for himself and his linemates. Khusnutdinov has tallied 12 goals and 26 points in 52 games, showcasing his offensive capabilities and solidifying his place in the lineup. His ability to drive play and support stars like Pastrnak has been invaluable to the Bruins' offensive output.
Fraser Minten is another Bruin who has emerged as a valuable contributor. Minten has thrived, showcasing his offensive potential and earning the trust of the coaching staff. His strong play in the offensive zone and ability to create scoring chances have made him a valuable asset to the Bruins' forward depth.
Goaltending is always crucial for any team with playoff aspirations, and the Bruins have benefited from the steady play of Joonas Korpisalo. While Jeremy Swayman has been the primary starter, Korpisalo has provided reliable and, at times, stellar performances when called upon. With Swayman representing Team USA at the Olympics, Korpisalo's importance to the Bruins is amplified during this break. His consistency and ability to steal games have been vital in keeping the Bruins competitive in the tightly contested Atlantic Division.
These three players exemplify the depth and resilience of the Boston Bruins roster. While the spotlight often shines on the team's stars, the contributions of Khusnutdinov, Minten, and Korpisalo have been crucial to the Bruins' success leading up to the Olympic break. As the team gears up for the final stretch of the season, their continued strong play will be essential for a deep playoff run.
The Bruins enter the Olympic break with a record of 32-20-5, placing them in a tight race for a playoff spot in the competitive Atlantic Division. The team's success in the second half of the season will depend on maintaining consistency and capitalizing on special teams opportunities. With several key players participating in the Winter Olympics, the Bruins will need contributions from their entire roster upon their return to continue their push towards the postseason. The NHL trade deadline looms shortly after the Olympic break, giving the Bruins' front office an opportunity to assess the team's needs and make any necessary acquisitions to bolster their chances of competing with top teams like the Tampa Bay Lightning and Montreal Canadiens.