The Boston Bruins lost 2-0 to the Florida Panthers on Saturday afternoon in the first game of their rookie camp tournament in Antioch, Tenn.
Despite the loss, Bruins assistant general manager Don Sweeney saw some good things from the team’s rookies.
“(David Pastrnak) had some chances … There were some very good individual efforts and some plays made. Malcolm made some really good saves, had one that I’m sure he’d want back. Overall, you can’t be disappointed,” Sweeney said postgame, via the team’s website. “It’s the first go-around, some guys are just knocking the rust off and getting used to each other. I thought the effort overall was pretty good.”
Top forward prospect and 2014 first-round draft pick David Pastrnak started at center on the team’s first line and earned a penalty shot in the third period. He didn’t find the back of the net, but Sweeney was encouraged by the 18-year-old’s play.
“There’s some risk/reward I will call it in (Pastrnak’s) game that at times will really translate and at other times he’ll understand that’s a young man’s play. And that’s what coaching and growth and development is all about,” Sweeney said. “But we’re excited about the offensive plays he did make and the effort he puts in. He comes back on the back check, strips the puck and goes the other way as well. Lot’s of good things from David’s play and lots of things to have some talking moments that I’m sure the coaches will address with him.”
Even though these rookie camp games are competitive and the players obviously want to win, the most important goal is for these players to acclimate to playing against pro-level opponents so they are better prepared for the challenge that training camp will present. Several of the Bruins rookies in this camp, including Pastrnak and defenseman Linus Arnesson, have zero pro experience in North America.
The B’s continue the tournament Sunday against the Tampa Bay Lightning rookies at 5 pm ET. Jonathan Drouin, who NHL.com recently ranked as the top prospect in the league, is expected to play.
Check out the video below to watch Sweeney’s comments from Saturday.
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