The Boston Bruins made some moves today, recalling forwards Georgii Merkulov and Jeffrey Viel, along with defenseman Ian Mitchell, from Providence. Corresponding moves sent down wingers Riley Tufte and Oliver Wahlstrom, as well as defenseman Michael Callahan. Here’s what it means for the team as they try to get in.
The Moves at a Glance
Who’s Coming Up?
Georgii Merkulov
- Position: Forward
- Stats (AHL): 13 goals, 31 assists, 44 points in 47 games.
- NHL Experience: 7 games, 1 assist.
- Role: Merkulov brings offensive upside and could slot into a top-nine role with Trent Frederic sidelined.
Ian Mitchell
- Position: Defenseman
- Stats (AHL): 4 goals, 23 assists, 27 points in 46 games.
- NHL Experience: 13 games, 2 assists, +6 rating.
- Role: Mitchell offers more puck-moving ability than Callahan, addressing a need on the blue line.
Jeffrey Viel
- Position: Forward
- Stats (AHL): 26 points, 130 penalty minutes in 51 games.
- Role: Viel adds physicality and grit, replacing Tufte’s presence in the lineup.
Who’s Heading Down?
Riley Tufte
- Position: Forward
- Stats (NHL): 5 games, 0 points, -3 rating.
- Role: Tufte provided depth but lacked offensive impact.
Oliver Wahlstrom
- Position: Forward
- Stats (NHL): Limited role, cleared waivers earlier today.
- Role: Wahlstrom struggled to carve out a consistent role in the lineup.
Michael Callahan
- Position: Defenseman
- Stats (NHL): 11 games, -2 rating, 13:08 average ice time.
- Role: Callahan’s stay-at-home style didn’t provide the offensive support the Bruins need.
Why These Moves Matter?
Looking for Overtime Spark
With defensemen Charlie McAvoy and Hampus Lindholm out, the Bruins need more puck-moving on the back end. Ian Mitchell isn’t a star but he’s more of an offensive player than Michael Callahan who was awful in his brief NHL stint. Mitchell’s offense— 27 points in 46 AHL games this season— could be a small but nice upgrade.
Adding Depth and Physicality
Georgii Merkulov brings offense the Bruins so desperately need. At 24 he’s still dominates the AHL with 44 points in 47 games. Jeffrey Viel adds size and physicality and is a solid replacement for Riley Tufte who didn’t impress during his recent call-up.
Fresh Start for Players Sent Down
For Riley Tufte, Oliver Wahlstrom and Michael Callahan going back to Providence is a chance to re-set and work on their games. Each has shown flashes but consistency is a problem. Hope is that time in the AHL will help them develop into more reliable options down the line.
Player Spotlights
Ian Mitchell: Long Overdue Recall
Acquired in the Taylor Hall trade from the Blackhawks, Mitchell hasn’t played an NHL game this season after spending part of last year with the Bruins. In Providence, he’s been one of the top scoring D in 27 points in 46 games and a +11. He’s being called up because the Bruins need someone to score even if its just in a limited role.
Georgii Merkulov: Offense
Merkulov has been one of the top players in the Bruins system since signing as a free agent in 2022. With Trent Frederic out, Merkulov gets a chance to play higher up in the lineup. His speed and creativity makes him an interesting option as the Bruins push for a playoff spot.
Jeffrey Viel: Bringing the Grime
Viel is here because the Bruins want to keep some grit. He’s 6’2” 205lbs and not afraid to drop the gloves or throw his body around. He’s the energy the team needs to shake up a struggling lineup.
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