Jack Studnicka has a lot to prove after a tough 2021-2022 campaign
Over the last few years, expectations have been high for Jack Studnicka. The former second-round pick made his NHL debut during the 2019-2020 season and, at the time, was seen as a prospect with high upside. While he has struggled in his limited opportunities, he had a solid preseason and earned a spot on the Bruins roster. As the Canadian native prepares for his fourth NHL season, he is looking to make his mark.
The 23-year-old is coming off a 2021-2022 campaign full of challenges. Despite having multiple chances, he couldn’t secure a spot on the Bruins roster and was sent back to Providence to work on his game. Studnicka was able to bounce back with 35 points in 41 games. In a year full of ups and downs, he learned some valuable lessons.
“So, I think mentally I think I’m more ready to handle it now than I ever was before. It’s shaped me to add to my game, said Studnicka. “The guys that make it right away, they’re special players and that’s great. But when you go through stuff like [Chris Wagner] has been through, you get a sense of gratitude. You really appreciate being here and playing in the NHL. So being here now I can probably say it was a good thing to go through because I think it made me mature a lot.”
During the preseason, Studnicka showed improved grit and tenacity. If he is going to stick around, those characteristics will be critical. The Bruins center has also contributed offensively, with four points in four games. That is a promising sign, considering he has only recorded five points in his last 35 NHL games.
As Studnicka looks to validate the Bruins faith, he will have less pressure than in years past. Most of his playing time to begin the season is expected to come on the third or fourth line. If he can build on his play over the last few weeks, it is only a matter of time before the offensive production comes.
Additionally, the former 53rd overall pick would be exposed to waivers if the Bruins sent him back to Providence. Boston would then risk losing him for nothing. That has brought out the best in Studnicka, who has played like a man on a mission. He has not backed down from a challenge and made an impact even if he is not putting the puck in the back of the net.
With franchise cornerstones such as Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci inching closer to retirement, Studnicka is an important piece in the Bruins long-term plans. The 2022-2023 campaign presents a golden opportunity for him to show why he can be a fixture moving forward.