Reviewing Boston Bruins' opening night roster: Strengths & weaknesses of Brad Marchand-led roster

The Boston Bruins enter the 2024-25 season with high expectations following a disappointing second-round playoff exit. The Bruins made a number of key offseason additions to bolster an already talented team. Captain Brad Marchand leads a cast of characters featuring Hart Trophy candidate David Pastrnak and top blueliner Charlie McAvoy.

Coach Jim Montgomery has gotten the most out of his roster, maximizing the team’s potential. The Boston Bruins finished second in a stacked Atlantic Division behind the Stanley Cup champ Florida Panthers. This season, the B’s will have to topple the Panthers to get to the top of the division.

But with netminder Jeremy Swayman back in the fold, the Boston Bruins have the best chance ever to maximize a team that includes newcomers Elias Lindholm and Nikita Zadorov. The Bruins likely seemed destined to finish behind Florida. However, a good season could propel the B’s to a division title.

Overall, there are no glaring holes in the Boston Bruins’ lineup. The offense looks solid. The forward group has plenty of depth, with talented young players coming up through the organization. Charlie Coyle, Morgan Geekie and Mason Lohrei look like the next wave of high-end players for Boston.

The defense is stacked with McAvoy, Zadorov and Hampus Lindholm leading the way. Having Swayman back in the fold with a new long-term deal gives the Bruins the certainty needed to compete in arguably the NHL’s toughest division.

Looking at the Boston Bruins' weaknesses

Injuries will be the B’s biggest concerns. Several Bruins’ have gone through injury issues at various points. Marchand is coming off numerous offseason surgeries, while Pastrnak, McAvoy and Elias Lindholm have all dealt with injuries at one point or another.

Barring injuries, consistency will be the key. The Boston Bruins can rifle off long win streaks. However, they can also go cold for long stretches. Considering that the B’s top players are getting a bit older, the issue could be the team running out of gas in the second half of the season.

As such, Boston’s depth will be crucial. As long as key pieces stay healthy, the Bruins should have a strong season. However, if injuries do become an issue, their depth will become the season’s biggest story.

Also, the team will be counting on Swayman to play up to his contract. While there is little doubt that Swayman is up to the task, he cannot afford to struggle out of the gate. Similarly, backup Joonas Korpisalo will be counted on to take some of the pressure off Swayman.

Overall, the Bruins should have another successful season. If injuries or inconsistency become issues, the Bruins could topple the Florida Panthers and become the top of the Atlantic Division.