The 2017-18 season is creeping closer and closer, and the Checkers’ move to the Eastern Conference means a whole new slate of opponents. For the new few weeks, we’ll take a look at each of Charlotte’s new Atlantic Division rivals!
Overview
The Bruins pushed their way into the postseason for the fifth year in a row in 2016-17, riding a stingy defense and solid penalty killing unit. Providence’s offensive attack stands formidable amidst some turnover, but the team’s biggest strength remains on the back end, where they’re buoyed by Zane McIntyre, who ranked second in the league in goals-against average, and Malcolm Subban between the pipes.
Key Departures
Alex Grant
Veteran blue liner set career highs across the board offensively, ranking second among all AHL defensemen in goals and tying for fifth in points, and now jets to Iowa for his ninth pro season
Wayne Simpson
After two ECHL seasons, 27-year-old now has two solid AHL seasons under his belt, leading Providence in assists last season (33) and ranking fourth on the team in scoring before joining the Hershey Bears over the offseason
Key RETURNING
Jake DeBrusk
The 14th overall pick in 2015 lit up the scoresheet during his rookie campaign, tying for second on Providence in scoring and ranking fifth among first-year pros across the league with 49 points
Jordan Szwarz
Alternate captain exceled in his first season with the Bruins, leading the club with 54 points in 65 games and tacking on 11 more in the postseason
Key ADDITIONS
Anders Bjork
High-flying forward broke out as a junior at Notre Dame, being named a Second Team All-American and Hobey Baker finalist after leading the Fighting Irish and ranking in the top 10 in the nation in scoring
Jakob Forsbacka Karlsson
Incoming rookie logged consecutive 30-points seasons at Boston University, including ranking third on the team as a sophomore last season while serving as an alternate captain
