Can Casey Mittelstadt have a strong year for the Bruins?
Casey Mittelstadt found himself a home on the Boston Bruins' second line left spot last season, and it is fair to say he did pretty well with the position change. In 71 games with the Bruins in 2025-26, he posted 15 goals, 27 assists, and 42 points. With this, he was one of the Bruins' key forwards.
However, it is clear that the 2026-27 campaign is a very important one for Mittelstadt. The 27-year-old forward is entering this season as a pending unrestricted free agent (UFA), so he will be looking to put together a strong year for the Black and Gold.
If Mittelstadt performs well for the Bruins, it would help his chances of landing a nice payday for his next deal. This remains the case whether he signs an extension with the Bruins or decides to test the free agent market.
Mittelstadt has also shown in the past that he can be a more significant offensive contributor. During the the 2022-23 season with the Buffalo Sabres, he posted a career-high 59 points in 82 games. He also recorded 57 points in 80 games split between the Sabres and Colorado Avalanche in 2023-24. If Mittelstadt can get close to the 60-point mark again this upcoming season with the Bruins, it would undoubtedly benefit both him and the Original Six club.
Nevertheless, it will be interesting to see what kind of season Mittelstadt can put together for the Bruins in 2026-27 from here.
