Boston Bruins Draft Preview: Bruins Can Add Depth In Rounds 5, 6

The Boston Bruins did not make a selection on Tuesday night in the first round of the 2020 NHL Entry Draft. Their first pick of the event will come early this afternoon, when the club selects 58th overall. The Boston Bruins will also make a selection in the third round, 88th overall. After that? It’s a lengthy wait until the fifth round.

The Bruins will not make a selection in the fourth round. Their pick, originally slated for 120th overall, belongs to the New Jersey Devils thanks to the Marcus Johansson trade at the 2019 NHL Trade Deadline.

Round 5, Pick 150

Bruins fans and media alike have been clamoring for size and toughness to be added to the NHL roster. Whoever the Bruins select with this pick won’t impact the roster in 2020-21, but could fill a hole down the road. Forward Noah Boyko could give the Boston Bruins that sandpaper element.

Boyko, a 6’1″ and 176 pound right winger, is a real leader and knows how to use his size at the junior level. The Bruins have had success with prospects like this in the past.

Here is what Bill Plazcek of draftsite.com had to say about him.

“Has shown flashes at offensive generation in mis-directions and set plays. Possesses the ability to read defensive breakdowns, set up plays and support in the offensive zone. Is a really good passer on both forehand and back hand. Handles pucks off the boards well, uses his size to make space. Has a good snap shot. Well respected by teammates in the room as a leader. He still has to put his complete game together.”

Round 6, Pick 181

If the Bruins are looking to add size, how about a 6’8″ center? That’s exactly how tall Matthew Rempe, a center from the WHL’s Seattle Thunderbirds, stands. Rempe is only 206 pounds, however, and will need to add bulk before being an NHL option. Still, growth is to be expected from an 18 year old.

Here is what Plazcek had to say about him.

“A skinny right-handed centre who towers over most players on the ice. There is skill and strong skating ability in place that helped him end up sixth in Seattle team scoring with 12 goals and 31 points in 47 games. Has grown to an enormous 6 foot 8 inches, and his reach is an asset in his overall game, as he takes away space and his possessions eat time off the clock. Ryan Getzlaf is one of the players he has always modeled himself after and wants to continue working hard to be an NHL caliber player. Dropped the gloves three times too, but as a result of plays he made that were construed as dirty hits and kneeing.

You have to wonder how high a level he will eventually be able to develop into. He plays fearless, finishes checks, make space for his line, and relishes going to the front of the net. A long shot, but the scouts have taken notice of his upside, and room to fill out that frame.”