The Big Bad Bruins?

Alright, time for another Northeast opponent: The Boston Bruins.

The Bruins, in my oppinion, could surprise a few people this year. Their offence should be quite dangerous. They have one of the better 1-2 punches at centre with Savard and Bergeron, and a proven goal scorer in Murray. Add to this mix Schaefer who will give them around 50 points (more if he manages to stick on the second or first line), a developing Phil Kessel who shouldn't miss any time this year, and you're looking at a scary offensive unit.

On top of this, Brandon Bochenski is a player who has some potential as a second or third liner if developed properly. We have seen what he can do here in Ottawa, and even though he disappointed some, he did show that he should be an NHL regular. He should at least be a valuable plug for the Bruins.

Defensively, the Bruins don't look to shabby either. Anchored by Chara who should bounce back after last year (though it wasn't nearly as bad a year as many Sens fans make it out to be), and also featuring Ference and Ward, they should be solid if not spectacular.

And of course, the Bruins now feature Fernandez, acquired from the Wild. I'm really not sure what this will do for them. Fernandez was very middle of the pack last year, posting 22 wins with a 2.55 GAA and .911 save percentage. Better numbers than Thomas yes, but not a significant improvement. Fernandez was playing on the Wild, a more defensively minded team playing in a division featuring the offensively challenged Oilers and Canucks.

The move the Northeast could expose Fernandez, as he will be facing offensive powerhouses like Ottawa, Toronto, and Buffalo. Even Montreal isn't a slouch when it comes to offence. On the other hand, Fernandez could shine and pull the Bruins into the playoffs.

I think they finish 11th...and Ottawa's record against them? 4-3-1