BOSTON -- Before this season, Alex Steeves had only tasted the NHL action in brief stints, maxing out at seven games. Now, the 26-year-old forward has notched 38 games with the Boston Bruins, making a significant impact since his recall from Providence in November. His efforts earned him a two-year contract extension with the team in January.
Adjusting to the NHL’s pace and demands has been a journey for Steeves, who has shown versatility across the Bruins' lineup. The Olympic break provided a much-needed pause for him to recharge after a whirlwind start to the season.
“The schedule has been intense, and it’s going to ramp up again soon. Players adapt, but it’s crucial to manage burnout and fatigue,” Steeves explained. “For rookies like me, this break was a chance to rest and reignite our passion for the game as we head into the final stretch of the season.”
Steeves is one of three rookies contributing to the Bruins this year, alongside Fraser Minten and Jonathan Aspirot. Each has embraced their roles, becoming integral to the team’s success.
The break offers them a chance to regroup and return even stronger for the crucial final part of the season.
“It’s beneficial for them, almost like a summer break. Now, they know what to expect,” said head coach Marco Sturm. “Consistency is the biggest challenge for young players, but overall, they’ve done an excellent job.”
Steeves has tallied 16 points (nine goals, seven assists) over 38 games and was riding a two-game point streak before the break. He found the net against the Tampa Bay Lightning in the Stadium Series and added an assist versus the Florida Panthers, playing alongside Sean Kuraly and Mikey Eyssimont on the fourth line.
As the Bruins gear up to face the Columbus Blue Jackets on Feb. 26, Steeves aims to maintain his momentum.
“We’re shaking off the rust, but everyone’s excited to be back. It’s a great time to hit the gym harder and refine our systems on the ice,” Steeves said. “We’re focused on special teams and staying sharp.”
Boston will soon welcome back players from the Olympics, including David Pastrnak from Team Czechia and Elias Lindholm and Hampus Lindholm from Team Sweden, who were recently eliminated in the quarterfinals.
“We’re giving them a few days to settle back,” Sturm noted. “We’ll gradually ramp up to game-like situations with drills and practices.”
Meanwhile, Charlie McAvoy and Jeremy Swayman (USA), along with Henri Jokiharju and Joonas Korpisalo (Finland), are set to compete in the Olympic semifinals, aiming for a spot in the gold-medal game.
“I couldn’t stop watching the Olympics,” Steeves shared. “If Canada and the U.S. face off in the final, it’s going to be nerve-wracking. I’m rooting for the U.S. boys to bring it home.”