Boston Bruins: Charlie McAvoy continues to prove he is a unique player

Boston Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy is gunning for the Calder Trophy.

Charlie McAvoy burst onto the scene after he was called up by the Boston Bruins to play in the playoffs last season. As a 19-year-old McAvoy had 3 assists in his first 6 games in the NHL. He was instantly a fan favorite.

During the offseason, McAvoy was able to continue to build chemistry with his new teammates and it shows in his play so far this season.

He has shown that he is a great two-way player we have seen numerous times that McAvoy is able to lay the lumber and make his presence known. McAvoy has 77 hits so far this season which makes him the Bruins leader. McAvoy is in the top 5 for scoring on the team. His +7 rating puts him in the top 10 among NHL rookies.

McAvoy is just a playmaker on the ice. He has amazing passing ability and arguably is currently the Bruins best defenseman. It is even more stunning because he just turned 20. McAvoy is still so young. He has so much time left to grow. He still could have around four or five years before he enters the prime of his career.

Also McAvoy is a workhorse. His 23:18 TOI per game is the highest among rookies and right behind Bruins captain Zdeno Chara. There is no doubt that McAvoy is a game changer and with his effect on the Bruins he is a candidate for the Calder trophy.

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McAvoy’s Competition

McAvoy will have some tough competition in the race for the Calder. Brock Boeser has been having an amazing season with 18 goals and 14 assists. He is averaging a point per game and is one of the best players on the Vancouver Canucks. Also, the New York Islanders have a stud in Mathew Barzal. He has 8 goals and 22 assists this season. His 20 assists put him in the top 20 in the NHL.

I think McAvoy definitely has a case to win the Calder. He is one of the best players on his team and makes a big impact when he is on the ice.

The last defenseman to win the Calder was Aaron Ekblad in 2014-2015. He had 12 goals and 27 assists. McAvoy could definitely eclipse those numbers this season.

Next: Boston Bruins dominate in back-to-back games

It will be an interesting race to watch but no matter what McAvoy is one of the best rookies the Bruins have seen in a while.