The Boston Bruins have been without their (arguably) top 2 forwards since the October 21, 2009 (the date Marc Savard went on long-term injury reserve (LTIR), Milan Lucic was placed on LTIR on October 18). Since that time, the Bruins have struggled to go 4-5-3 and at times have looked pretty ugly at doing so.

Marc Savard, Boston's leading point getter in every season he's worn the black and gold, is the guy who keeps the power play machine plugged in and chugging. Need some proof? Marc Savard is the current power play goal (PPG) leader on the team with 2 goals. Yes, a guy who has been out since the end of October leads the team in power play goals. Need further proof? Since October 21, the Bruins are 4 for 34 on the power play, a wonderful 11.7%.

Would Savard be the guy who turns the power play around and makes it everything that Bruins fans have hoped for and more? Who knows, but with his passing ability and his uncanny ability to make plays happen, they certainly wouldn't be 4-34.

It's not just the power play, though, that would benefit from Savard being on the ice. The offense would certainly be more productive than it has been since he's been out (sans the Buffalo and Pittsburgh games). The Bruins are 26th in goals per game with 2.32.

Milan Lucic won't be the guy who is the answer to the offenses problems, but he will certainly be part of the remedy. Lucic was benefited from being on a line with Savard more than anyone (except maybe Kessel, though Leafs fans have found their new prodigal son) and will continue to do so should Savard don the black and gold again next year.

Unlike what many fans think, Lucic will not be Cam Neely. He will not be a 50, 40 or even a 30 goal scorer in this NHL, but he is the perfect power forward for this team. Tough, strong, gritty player who will drop the gloves when needed to give this team a boost.

Luckily for the Bruins, guys like Steve Begin and Shawn Thornton have continued to be a factor in the bring the energy/pound face department, but it always seems like Looch brings something different to the table.

Lucic is looking for a return on November 19th against Atlanta. Right now, there seems to be no timetable on when Savard should be back, but hopefully it's before Thanksgiving and not after.

These guys will provide a much needed spark for Boston

Comments (0)

Name

Email

Website

Title

Comment

smaller | bigger

Subscribe via email (registered users only)

Add Comment