Given the Boston Bruins’ small prospect pool, hoarding is critical. The organization has seen players advance to the big club and even received a boost last season. Surprisingly, center Matthew Poitras and defender Mason Lohrei burst on the scene in 2023-24, playing critical roles and providing valuable young depth. Following them, the cupboard is a little bare, and the squad needs to restock it.
The difficult aspect about being a Stanley Cup contender is that you always choose late in each round. That isn’t always a bad thing because you can still make a good draft pick. The Bruins selected superstar David Pastrnak 25th overall in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft, demonstrating that it is possible to strike gold even at that position.
Don Sweeney, the team’s general manager, was able to re-enter the first round of the 2024 NHL Entry Draft after trading for a first-round choice from the Ottawa Senators. Ironically, that pick was initially made by the Boston Bruins. Linus Ullmark, the Senators’ number one goalie, was taken by the Bruins, who chose center Dean Letourneau. There is a lot to like about this draft pick and the type of player he could become down the road.
Bruins Increase Prospective Strength Down the Middle
Outside of Matthew Poitras, the Bruins lack middle-of-the-road prospects. They got a decent taste of what center John Beecher can contribute to the club, and while he is better suited for a bottom-six role, he is an important element of the team’s depth. The Bruins lack a legitimate number-one center. Sweeney went on to sign Elias Lindholm for seven years, so the answer is clear right away. However, the idea is to pick and develop that center, with the hope that the player would eventually evolve into that number-one role.
Bruins fans should like Letourneau. The most notable similarity he receives is to Buffalo Sabres center Tage Thompson. Thompson was initially part of the transaction with the Sabres that sent Ryan O’Reilly to the St. Louis Blues. Thompson had not yet reached his full potential, but he is now a devastating offensive force for the Sabres. Letourneau stands 6-foot-7. For his size, he is a fantastic skater, and he also has the technique to match. That was what attracted Sweeney to him.
“What stood out was obviously the player’s frame and skill set,” Sweeney said of Letourneau. “Not only does he move well for his size, but he also has excellent hands and an elite shot.” We believe [BC] will be an excellent development opportunity for Dean to continue to improve and fill weaknesses in his game.” (Source: Audacy.com, June 28, 2024).
Nobody claims he is the next Thompson. However, he does attract comparisons to his height, shooting, and even stick handling. Coincidentally, this is a player that has modeled his game after Thompson. Development camps were taking place at Warrior Ice Arena, and Letourneau impressed.
Early impressions of Letourneau.
All eyes were on Poitras as he battled back from injury and continued his rehabilitation. However, attention shifted to Letourneau, who was attending his first Bruins development camp. He is easy to detect because of his height. He also distinguished out for the small things he did on the rink. Adam McQuaid, the Bruins’ player development coordinator and former defenseman, praised Letourneau. As the camp ended, he stated, “It’s hard not to notice him at his size.” You observe his calm demeanor near the net. Smooth, good hands. Just a large frame. However, he still appears to be a little child. He’s a young guy with a lot of potential.” (audacy.com, July 4, 2024).
Dean Letourneau with an absolutely FILTHY move to beat Ryan Bischel. He pics off a bad pass, makes a forehand-backhand deke and slides it home. Even in small glimpses this kid has a ton of potential #NHLBruins #BruinsDevelopmentCamp pic.twitter.com/WtTa0zF9K1
— Tom Calautti (@TCalauttis) July 4, 2024
