New Bruins Forward Doesn’t Believe This Attribute Defines His Playing Style

Bruins forward Mark Kastelic is a heavy, physical player with a history of blowing up opponents with big hits. Last season, he ranked fifth in hits (126) and second in faceoffs (54.4%) in 63 games for Ottawa.

However, the 6-foot-4, 226-pound Arizona native believes he has more to offer than being a physical player.

“It’s definitely part of my game, but I don’t think that’s what defines me as a player at all,” Kastelic told reporters after captain’s practice at Warrior Ice Arena on Thursday, per team-provided video. “I think I bring a lot. A good all-around game, and kind of take a lot of pride in being a good two-way forward.

“I think being physical and faceoffs are a strength of mine, and definitely not afraid to mix it up if I have to and if the time calls for it.”

Kastelic’s size is intimidating for a forward, but in the Bruins room, he isn’t the only big body joining 6-foot-5, 220-pound Justin Brazeau and 6-foot-3, 220-pound Trent Frederic.

“I think that’s something that stood out to me when I got traded here; how big and heavy everybody is,” he said. “I fall into that category. It’s definitely different not being one of the biggest guys around. I feel pretty average here. That’s the style of hockey that everybody wants to play here this year, to be big and heavy. I think everyone’s excited for what we have in the room.”

Kastelic will most likely start the season as the Bruins’ fourth-line center flanked by Brazeau and Johnny Beecher, but the 25-year-old does bring versatility.

“That’s another thing I take a lot of pride in being able to play all different positions,” Kastelic said. “I definitely view myself as a natural centerman, but the more versatile you are as a player, the more opportunities and good positions you can be put into. That’s part of my game that I continue to work on over the last year or so, being able to adapt, whether it’s center or wing.”

The Bruins will begin ramping up for the regular season when training camp opens Sept. 18. Boston opens its preseason against the New York Rangers at TD Garden Sept. 22.