Bruins Found Hidden Gem With Breakout Forward

   

Boston Bruins forward Justin Brazeau has quietly been having a solid season with the Original Six club. The 6-foot-6 winger has shown that he belongs in the Bruins' top nine, posting nine goals, 17 points, and 54 hits in 37 games. This is solid production, but especially when noting that the 26-year-old did not sign his first NHL contract until February of last season.

Brazeau showed promise after earning an NHL deal from the Bruins last season, recording five goals and seven points in 19 regular-season games. Yet, he has now hit a new level offensively with the Bruins this season and is emerging as an important part of their forward group.

What's also encouraging about Brazeau is that he only seems to improve as he continues to gain experience. He has been heating up lately, too, posting three goals over his last four games. This includes scoring the Bruins' lone goal in their 3-1 loss to the Washington Capitals last game.

Justin Brazeau <p> © Peter Casey-Imagn Images</p>

Brazeau is currently in the final season of his entry-level with the Bruins and is eligible to become an unrestricted free agent this upcoming summer. Given how well he has fit into the Bruins' system since his arrival, he is a player who they should try to keep around. He offers solid secondary scoring and more size to the Bruins' lineup.