The Bruins need this veteran forward to find his scoring touch.
The Bruins need this veteran forward to find his scoring touch.
During the 2023 NHL Offseason, the Boston Bruins signed James van Riemsdyk to a one-year, $1 million contract. Overall, it's fair to call this signing a success, as JVR has been impactful. In 69 games, the New Jersey native has 11 goals, 38 points, and a plus-9 rating.
However, as the season has rolled on, the veteran winger's offense has dropped off. March was a particularly tough month for van Riemsdyk, as he dealt with a long-term illness that naturally impacted his energy and play. Yet, his offense was also slowing down before getting sick, too.
Since Feb. 19, van Riemsdyk has just one assist over his last 18 games. He has also not recorded a point in his previous 11 contests.
van Riemsdyk showed earlier this season that he can produce well in a top-nine role for the Bruins, and they need him to heat back up. If the Bruins can get the JVR that they had at the beginning of the season back, it would make them a more significant threat in the postseason.
There's no question that van Riemsdyk has the potential to regain his form, and it will be intriguing to see if it comes to fruition.
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