Trent Frederic's Future With the Boston Bruins
Over the past few seasons, Trent Frederic has become a well-known name to Boston Bruins fans. The St. Louis-native made his NHL debut during the 2019-2020 season and instantly became a fan favorite. In Frederic's first game, he got in a fight towards the end of the second period, showing fans that he's not afraid to get physical. Since Frederic's debut, however, he has failed to secure a spot in Boston. He now faces the most critical offseason of his career.
Frederic's NHL journey began in 2016 when the Bruins selected him in the first round of the NHL Draft. Since joining the Bruins' organization, Frederic has been known for his physical and aggressive style of play, however, that has not translated to points. Even in the AHL, Frederic has struggled offensively at times.
In 127 AHL games, Frederic has scored 23 goals and recorded 38 assists. While Frederic had a career-high in assists last season with 24, he has only scored double-digit goals once in three seasons with Providence. At the NHL level, Frederic's struggles have continued as he has gone scoreless in 17 games.
As the Bruins look towards the future, Frederic will be battling for a spot when the training camp begins. The Bruins' main concern will be improving an offense that struggled in five on five play during the playoffs. General Manager Don Sweeney will be busy in the trade and free-agent market, but the Bruins hope some of their young players can step up.
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Frederic, however, will also have competition in the form of top prospect Jack Studnicka. While Studnicka still has room to improve, he has been an offensive machine in the AHL. This past season he was impressive in the playoffs and had one assist in two regular-season games.
Additionally, Frederic will be battling for a spot on one of the Bruins' bottom lines. There will be a spot open as Joakim Nordstrom will be a free agent this offseason. To secure a place on the roster, Frederic will have to improve offensively and limit his penalty minutes.
Furthermore, when the AHL season was suspended, Fredric had 148 penalty minutes. It is a number that has increased throughout his career and could put the Bruins in difficult situations. This season Brad Marchand lead the Bruins with 82. While Frederic will not see the same amount of ice time in the NHL level, teams will capitalize on powerplay situations.
While the opportunity will be there, it will be up to Frederic to seize it and make his mark as his chances may be running out.