There is one major reason why these Boston Bruins top prospects did not participate in rookie camp this year.
The Boston Bruins officially started their rookie camp on Wednesday (Sept. 11) with a 10:45 a.m. practice. They will have another practice tomorrow (Sept. 12) before beginning the Prospects Challenge in Buffalo, New York, on Sept. 13. During the Prospects Challenge, the Bruins will face off against the Pittsburgh Penguins (Sept. 13), Columbus Blue Jackets (Sept. 14), and New Jersey Devils (Sept. 16).
This is a fun time of year, as the Bruins' youngsters are all now back on the ice and will soon get into some game action. However, the Bruins' rookie camp roster has two big prospects missing from it: Fabian Lysell and Georgii Merkulov.
When noting that Lysell and Merkulov are Boston's top prospects, it is certainly intriguing that they are not at the rookie camp. However, the reason for this is entirely understandable.
While speaking to reporters, Providence Bruins head coach Ryan Mougenel shared that Lysell and Merkulov are not participating in rookie camp because Boston wants them 100% for the NHL club's training camp. Mougenel also complimented their mindsets and stated that he believes they will make cases for themselves to make the NHL roster, as relayed by Ty Anderson.
After losing multiple forwards this offseason, the Bruins have spots in their lineup up for grabs. As a result, players like Lysell and Merkulov have been viewed as prime breakout candidates for the Bruins heading into next season. Thus, it makes sense that the club wants them to focus on the NHL training camp instead of the rookie camp.
Fabian LysellThe Bruins selected Lysell with the 21st overall pick of the 2021 NHL Entry Draft. The 21-year-old winger is coming off a strong season with Providence, posting career highs with 15 goals, 35 assists, and 50 points in 56 games. With the Bruins' depth at right wing not being the strongest, Lysell has a golden opportunity in front of him to try to make the roster.
Merkulov, on the other hand, had a magnificent year in Providence, recording new career highs with 30 goals, 35 assists, and 65 points in 67 games. After such a strong season, there is no question that the 23-year-old will warrant consideration for a spot on the Bruins' opening night roster.
Georgii MerkulovIt will be fascinating to see if these top prospects can make the NHL roster at the start of the season.