Bruins Chalkboard: Heinen’s Versatility Valuable To The Bruins (BHN+)

With the Boston Bruins officially announcing the Danton Heinen’s new two-year contract extension late Tuesday evening, Heinen and General Manager Don Sweeney avoided a salary arbitration hearing which was set for August 3rd. The Bruins likely decided to prevent arbitration because, despite Heinen lacking in offensive prowess this past season with just 11 goals and 34 points, he became one of head coach Bruce Cassidy’s most dependable 200-foot players. The points weren’t there for Heinen, but there was plenty he did in the defensive and neutral zones that led to offense for his team. In addition to his defensive responsibility enabling his team to gain offensive chances, Heinen helps Cassidy by being so versatile in the lineup. Here’s a breakdown of why Heinen and the Bruins avoided what can at times be a difficult process in arbitration.