boston – Matt Poitras is getting quite a bit of attention.
The 19-year-old centerman will play in his fourth preseason game on Tuesday night when the Bruins host the Washington Capitals at TD Garden (7 p.m. ET on NESN and 98.5 p.m. on Sports Hub) ).
Asked about Poitras playing in back-to-back exhibition games, coach Jim Montgomery said, “It’s just to see how he handles a situation where he can play back-to-back games.” “We’re going to see a really great lineup from Washington. From the looks of it, it’s pretty much a Washington team up front. Watch him revolt. [Nicklas] backstroms, [Evgeny] Kuznetsovs of the world, see how he deals with it. ”
Montgomery has seen Poitras gradually improve throughout training camp, a trait Boston’s bench manager noted is usually a trait of great players.
“We’re seeing his ability, his creativity and the growth in his game,” Montgomery said. “Another factor is the physical aspect of it. It’s a men’s league compared to the junior league. He’s used to playing against people within two years of his age. That’s a factor, and these two It’s about balancing it out and determining what’s in his best interest, yes, about his confidence and whether he can be the guy who not only helps the Bruins, but helps the Bruins. , how much more confident will he be if he goes back?
“And there are a lot of factors that are going to grow. He’s been doing very well so far, so we’re giving him a chance and getting some attention.”
Poitras will center Brad Marchand (and Trent Frederick) as he did Friday night against Philadelphia. Marchand said the 2022 second-round pick is reminiscent of Toronto Maple Leafs star Mitch Marner in his blend of skill and competitiveness.
“He’s smart on both sides of the puck, the way he moves and the way he can dish the puck,” Marchand said. “I just remembered, [Marner]. The same goes for how he’s not afraid to get into the dirty area and fight for his puck. he has great vision. He does a great job of cutting into the middle and gaining space.
“He can find quiet areas where he has extra seconds to play. Even when he’s under pressure and everyone’s cornered, he finds holes. He certainly has great vision.
“He’s definitely shown a lot of promise. He’s had a great camp so far and he’s got to keep it going. It’s going to be tough for him tonight because he has a business trip and back-to-back…Next. What he needs to do is be consistent so he can prove what he can do at the level…He’s a great little player. He’s got a bright future ahead of him.”
