Bruins Unlikely to Add Big-Name Defenseman in Free Agency, With Dougie Hamilton Waiting in Wings

Dougie Hamilton was the selected by the Bruins ninth overall in the 2011 NHL Draft. In the year since, he's done nothing but raise the hopes of Boston fans everywhere eager to see the talented young defenseman don the black and gold.

Standing 6-foot-5, Hamilton is an imposing presence on the blue line. All he did this past season with the Niagara IceDogs of the Ontario Hockey League was lead all defenseman in scoring, with 72 points in only 50 games. He's expected to break camp with the big club this year and be eased into a greater role over time.

Because of his expected contribution, this frees up the B's from having to pursue a big-name defenseman in free agency, and can thus concentrate their efforts elsewhere.

NESN.com NHL writer Doug Flynn discussed Hamilton's potential,the Bruins' draft strategy, Tim Thomas' chances of returning and more in his most recent Twitter Q&A.

Read it all for yourself in the transcript below.

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Photo via Facebook/Dougie Hamilton