Boston Bruins And The No. 7 Pick: Hits And Misses Of The Last Decade

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Post on May 15, 2025

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Boston Bruins and the No. 7 Pick: A Decade of Hits and Misses in the NHL Draft

The Boston Bruins, a storied franchise with a rich history, haven't always nailed their NHL Draft picks. While some selections at number seven have blossomed into stars, others have faded into the background. This analysis delves into the last decade of Bruins' number seven picks, examining both the triumphs and disappointments, and considering the impact of draft strategy on the team's overall success.

A Look Back at the Bruins' No. 7 Selections (2014-2023)

The Bruins haven't consistently held the seventh overall pick each year, but when they have, the results have been a mixed bag. Let's examine the players selected:

• 2014: David Pastrňák (Round 1, Pick 25 overall): While technically not a #7 pick, it's crucial to mention Pastrňák's selection given the subsequent trades that moved the Bruins out of the top 7. Pastrňák's selection proved to be a monumental success, making him arguably the most impactful player drafted by the Bruins this decade. His exceptional goal-scoring ability and dynamic play have made him a cornerstone of the Bruins' offense. This highlights the importance of strategic trades and scouting beyond the initial draft position.

• 2015: Jakub Zboril (Round 1, Pick 13 overall): Again, not a #7 pick but relevant for understanding the Bruins' drafting trends. Zboril, a defenseman, hasn't quite lived up to expectations, struggling to secure a consistent NHL role. His career trajectory underscores the inherent uncertainty in drafting young players and the challenges of developing defensive talent.

• 2018: No pick at #7. The Bruins weren't in possession of a top 7 pick.

• 2019: No pick at #7. Similar to 2018, draft positioning didn't allow the Bruins to pick at #7.

• 2020-2023: No pick at #7. The Bruins have not held the 7th overall pick in recent years. Their success in recent years suggests a shift in their draft strategy, focusing on later-round selections and trades.

Analyzing the Success and Setbacks

The Bruins' experience with high draft picks reveals a complex reality. Securing a top-seven pick offers a chance to add a significant talent to the roster, but it's far from a guarantee. Several factors influence the success of a draft pick, including:

• Player Development: The Bruins' player development system plays a crucial role. Effective coaching, training, and mentorship can significantly impact a young player's growth.

• Injury History: Injuries can derail a player's career, regardless of their initial potential.

• Fit within the Team: A highly skilled player may not thrive if they don't fit the team's system or culture.

• Scouting and Evaluation: The accuracy of the scouting process is paramount in identifying and selecting the right players.

Future Implications for the Bruins

The Bruins' approach to the NHL Draft has evolved. While high draft picks offer exciting potential, the team's recent success suggests a focus on strategic moves, player development, and building a cohesive team dynamic. Future draft strategies will likely continue to emphasize identifying talent throughout the draft, rather than solely relying on top-seven selections.

Conclusion:

The Boston Bruins' experience with the number seven pick over the last decade underscores the unpredictability inherent in the NHL Draft. While landing a player like David Pastrňák proves the potential reward, the inconsistencies highlight the need for a holistic approach that balances high-draft picks with strong player development, strategic trades, and a keen eye for talent throughout the draft. Only time will tell how future draft strategies impact the Bruins’ long-term success.