Boston Bruins: Jack Studnicka believes he can make the team

CHICAGO, IL - JUNE 24: Jack Studnicka is interviewed after being selected 53rd overall by the Boston Bruins during the 2017 NHL Draft at the United Center on June 24, 2017 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, IL - JUNE 24: Jack Studnicka is interviewed after being selected 53rd overall by the Boston Bruins during the 2017 NHL Draft at the United Center on June 24, 2017 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images) /
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After the first day of Boston Bruins developmental camp, Center Jack Studnicka let the media know that he doesn’t plan on going back to Providence.

All Boston Bruins fans should keep this name on their radar: Jack Studnicka. After the first day of Bruins developmental camp, Studnicka turned some heads with his comments. Clearly the 19-year-old isn’t lacking in the confidence department.

"“It’s always been my dream to play in the NHL and looking at the roster, there are spots there that are up for grabs,” Studnicka said yesterday after the hour-long practice. “I’m going to put my head down, go to work and hope for the best.”"

Studnicka was drafted in the 2nd round of the 2017 NHL draft.  he is a 6′ center who can definitely put up some big numbers. When you read Studnicka’s scouting report you see why he thinks he can make the team. His style of play seems perfect for this Bruins team.

"“Studnicka has good size – although adding bulk will be key for him. He is an excellent skater who has an explosive first step and decent top end speed who can change direction with ease. He possesses very good vision with high quality playmaking skills with an ability to set up his teammates. His shot is underrated in my opinion. His release is deceptive and accurate and he puts every shot on goal with a purpose. Studnicka can be elusive in the offensive zone. He can break away from coverage almost undetected and put himself into scoring positions. He has very good puck skills and strong possession skills. Although he needs to add some muscle, he will not shy away from the hard areas. Once he gets stronger, it will become an area where he wins more often than he loses because of it – and his work ethic.”"

A stellar season

Studnicka had the best season of his hockey career last season. He played in both the OHL and the AHL last season. With the Oshawa Generals, Studnicka scored 22 goals and 50 assists. He was a point per game player but had some scoring issues when he went 11 games without a point.

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After his season with the Generals, he came to play in Providence and scored a point per game with a goal and 4 assists in 5 games.

Studnicka still has a slim chance to make the roster. The Bruins have a ton of talent at the center position. They could re-sign Riley Nash and they have already tendered a qualifying offer to Sean Kuraly. The Bruins also have Jakob Forsbacka Karlsson and Trent Frederic already in their system. Also the recent John Tavares news doesn’t bode well for Studnicka’s chances of making the team.

Also like a lot of prospects, Studnicka needs to bulk up. As his scouting report says he already fights in the corners, but usually comes out a loser. This is still a good sign because we all remember how passive David Pastrnak played when he first entered the league. Studnicka already fights in the corners so I think he will be able to get stronger while with the Bruins.

Studnicka has some lofty goals, but you have to appreciate his attitude. He is a competitor who clearly loves the game.

Next: Boston Bruins rumors: A closer look at John Tavares

Even if he falls short of his goal Jack Studnicka is someone to keep an eye on. He has the right attitude and the skillset to be a quality player in the NHL.