This Bruins center is becoming a significant part of Boston's roster.
This Bruins center is becoming a significant part of Boston's roster.
During the 2022 NHL Offseason, the Boston Bruins acquired Pavel Zacha from the New Jersey Devils in exchange for Erik Haula. Since then, the Bruins have clearly won the deal, as Zacha has emerged as a legitimate top-six forward upon his arrival in Boston.
In 82 games last season, the 27-year-old had 21 goals and 57 points. It was a breakout year for the 2015 fifth-overall pick, but he's now taken a step even further this campaign. In 76 games in 2023-24, Zacha has 20 goals and a career-high 58 points.
Zacha has filled in beautifully as a top-six center with the retirements of Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci. The 6-foot-4 forward has provided Boston with plenty of offense and has been a crucial part of their special-team units.
Given Zacha's success in crucial roles, it is apparent that the skilled forward is emerging as a core piece of their roster. Had he not thrived in a top-six center role for Boston this season, the Original Six club would have been in trouble. Instead, they are once again one of the top teams in the league as we get closer to the postseason.
What's outstanding about Zacha is that he carries a reasonable $4.75 million contract until the end of the 2026-27 season. Given his continued improvement, that deal has the potential to age beautifully.
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