BOSTON – Charlie Coyle made a major impact for his hometown Bruins since the organization acquired him on Feb. 20, 2019.
The Weymouth, Mass., native came agonizingly close to winning a Stanley Cup in Boston that season, but the Bruins fell short, losing to the St. Louis Blues in Game 7. Now, Coyle will have a better chance at Stanley Cup glory with the Colorado Avalanche.
"I'm gonna miss Boston a ton," he said. "Very bittersweet leaving the B's and my home, but at the same time very excited for a new opportunity to play on a great team."
He'll likely serve as the team's third-line center behind Nathan MacKinnon (1C) and Brock Nelson (2C).
"Great pick up," said a Western Conference coach.
Coyle’s presence and versatility will help bring balance to an already solid lineup for the Avalanche. His contributions and abilities increase Colorado’s chances of earning a postseason berth and potential deep run. Similar to his time in Boston, Coyle will be a perfect fit both on and off the ice for the Avalanche.
"He's a gamer," said an NHL scout. "He's a legit third-line center. He adds size down the middle and can defend against bigger forwards. A two-way player who can help in the PK and play in all situations."
Coyle uses his size and strength to his advantage and is one of the best puck-protecting forwards in the NHL. When he’s at his best and consistent, he’s tough to play against. Given his 6-foot-3, 215-pound frame, natural hockey ability and relentless work ethic, Coyle is exactly what Colorado needs at this point of the season. When the Bruins acquired him, he was a perfect fit and his contributions were crucial during that Stanley Cup run. It will be the same in Colorado.
He has the ability to control a line, play in all situations and play against anybody. He has the ability to elevate his game in crucial situations, and when he’s determined, he can be one of the strongest players on the ice.
The Avalanche acquired a player who is relentless and possesses a strong work ethic both on and off the ice. While it’s a tough loss for Bruins fans, he’ll have a better chance of winning a Stanley Cup in Colorado.