With the NHL currently on pause for the Olympics, the Boston Bruins are enjoying a much-needed breather before gearing up for what they hope will be a deep playoff push. But while the big club hits the reset button, the Providence Bruins are about to get back to work - and they’re bringing some serious momentum with them.
Before the AHL’s All-Star break, Providence was red hot, riding a 10-game winning streak. And they did it without one of their most talented young centers, Matthew Poitras, who was up with the Bruins filling in for a banged-up roster. Now, with Poitras back in the AHL fold and the team set to return to action on Saturday in a home-and-home against Bridgeport, there are a few key names worth keeping an eye on.
Matthew Poitras: Staying Ready, Staying Sharp
Poitras’ return to Providence isn’t a demotion - it’s a strategic move. With Pavel Zacha sidelined and Elias Lindholm competing in the Olympics for Sweden, Boston needed Poitras to step in and log NHL minutes.
And he delivered. In three games before the break, he averaged just over 12 minutes of ice time and looked confident, even scoring a slick backhand goal against the Lightning in the Stadium Series game at Raymond James Stadium.
Now back in the AHL, the goal is simple: keep him sharp. With Zacha’s status still uncertain and the Bruins’ forward depth being tested, Poitras could be called up again soon. Sending him down to Providence ensures he’s not just waiting around - he’s staying in game shape and ready to contribute the moment the call comes.
This is all part of the development curve for a young center like Poitras. He’s shown he can hang at the NHL level, and now it’s about staying ready and continuing to refine the details of his game in a competitive AHL environment.
Fabian Lysell: Still Flashing, Still Waiting
Fabian Lysell remains one of the most intriguing players in the Bruins’ system. The talent is obvious - high-end speed, slick hands, and the kind of creativity that jumps off the ice. But despite a strong showing late last season, Lysell has once again found himself on the outside looking in when it comes to the NHL roster.
That’s not necessarily a knock on his play. The Bruins made a series of offseason moves that added veteran depth on the wings, and Lysell has been a bit of a victim of the numbers game.
Still, he’s producing in Providence and making his case. If the Bruins need an offensive jolt or run into injury trouble up front, Lysell’s name will be in the conversation.
For now, he continues to be a must-watch in the AHL - a dynamic winger who’s doing everything he can to force the Bruins’ hand.
Frederic Brunet: Quietly Climbing the Ladder
Let’s be honest - Boston’s organizational depth on the blue line isn’t exactly overflowing. If the Bruins find themselves needing help on defense, the list of options in Providence is short. But Frederic Brunet is doing his best to change that narrative.
The physical, left-shot defenseman made his NHL debut last season and has quietly put together a strong campaign in 2025-26. His efforts were recognized with an AHL All-Star nod, and he took part in the festivities this week - a well-earned honor for a player who’s taken a big step forward.
Brunet brings a no-nonsense style to the ice. He’s not flashy, but he plays with an edge and has shown he can handle tough minutes. Like Lysell, he’s currently blocked by veterans, but if the Bruins need to dip into their AHL pool for defensive help, Brunet is the most NHL-ready option they’ve got.
Looking Ahead
The Providence Bruins return to action this weekend with plenty of storylines to follow. Whether it’s Poitras sharpening his game, Lysell pushing for a shot, or Brunet proving he belongs, there’s no shortage of talent knocking on the door.
Boston’s playoff hopes may hinge on the health and consistency of their NHL roster, but make no mistake - the depth being built in Providence could play a major role down the stretch. The Baby B’s are rolling, and with reinforcements like these, the organization is in a good spot to weather whatever comes next.