Disappointing’ 1st-Rounder and 2023 Bruins Draft Prospects Set for 2024-25 Season
As the 2024-25 NHL season approaches, the Boston Bruins are preparing to navigate a roster with some significant changes. The team has recently found itself near the bottom of NHL prospect pools, largely due to recent call-ups such as Mason Lohrei, Matt Poitras, and John Beecher, who are expected to secure spots on the NHL roster. This transition has left the Bruins’ young player pool somewhat depleted. However, there is still hope as several of their 2023 draft picks are set to make their mark this season. Here’s a closer look at where these prospects will be playing:
2023 Draft Overview:
Chris Pelosi (3rd Round, 92nd Overall): Pelosi has demonstrated notable improvement since his draft by the Bruins. The 19-year-old left-shot center, who previously played for the Sioux Falls Stampede in the USHL, recorded 21 goals and 34 assists last season. This promising young forward will be heading to Quinnipiac University for the 2024-25 season, where he aims to continue his development and contribute significantly.
Beckett Hendrickson (4th Round): Hendrickson, who was a teammate of Pelosi’s for part of the USHL season before his trade to the Dubuque Fighting Saints, tallied 27 goals and 37 assists in 59 games. The 6-foot-2 center will join the University of Minnesota this winter, bringing his excellent playmaking skills and size to the collegiate level.
Ryan Walsh (6th Round): Walsh had a strong freshman season at Cornell University, notching 12 goals and 10 assists in 35 games. The 20-year-old center is known for his quick release and ability to create space for his teammates. As he enters his sophomore season, Walsh will look to build on his early success and continue his development at Cornell.
Casper Nassen (7th Round): The Swedish winger, standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 205 pounds, scored 16 goals and added 15 assists in 41 games for Frolunda in the J20 Nationell. Nassen will be taking his talents to the University of Miami-Ohio this season, where his heavy shot and physical style of play are expected to make a significant impact.
Kristian Kostadinski (7th Round): Kostadinski, a towering defenseman at 6-foot-6 and 220 pounds, registered three goals and 18 assists last season while serving as captain for Frolunda. His physical play and leadership will see him return to Frolunda for another season, where he will continue to develop his game and provide a physical presence on the ice.
While the Bruins’ 2023 draft began in the third round, there is notable potential in these five players. Four of them will be playing college hockey in the United States, offering fans the chance to follow their progress closely. As the Bruins look to rebuild their prospect pool, these young players represent a promising future for the team.
