The Boston Bruins are gearing up for some changes on their blue line, and Frederic Brunet might just be the new addition to watch. The 22-year-old defenseman, a fifth-round pick from 2022, has just inked a two-year extension worth $875,000 annually. With Brunet set to become a restricted free agent this offseason, GM Don Sweeney acted swiftly to lock him in, seeing the potential value he brings, especially if he can carry over his AHL success to the NHL.
Brunet has been turning heads with the Providence Bruins, notching 11 goals and 28 points in 55 games. But those numbers only scratch the surface of his nightly impact.
He's a big, skilled left-shot defender with a knack for skating and influencing the game across all zones. His double-digit goals are just the cherry on top of a solid all-around performance.
However, Brunet faces a challenge with the Bruins' depth on the left side of their defense. While the right side features Charlie McAvoy, Henri Jokiharju, and Andrew Peeke, the left is stacked with Hampus Lindholm, Jonathan Aspirot, Nikita Zadorov, Mason Lohrei, and Jordan Harris. This depth has even pushed Lohrei to play on the right side recently, with Peeke, Harris, and Jokiharju rotating on the blue line.
As the Bruins look to bolster their right-handed defense this offseason through free agency and trades, Brunet will have to compete fiercely for a spot. Yet, with his skills, he’s sure to be in the mix come training camp. Any injuries to left-shot players could see Brunet getting a chance to step in and prove himself.
Standing at 6-foot-3 and 200 pounds, Brunet hasn’t played in the 2025-26 season yet but made his NHL debut last season against the New Jersey Devils. In that game, he logged over 14 minutes, showcasing his defensive prowess with two shots on goal, five blocks, a takeaway, and a hit. This experience puts him in a good position for a call-up if injuries strike the Bruins' defensive lineup.
While it's still uncertain who will make the opening night roster next season, changes are likely. Brunet’s contract offers the Bruins a cost-effective option as he continues to develop. The team needs to tighten up defensively to maximize head coach Marco Sturm’s system, and while the front office will likely seek more right-handed defenders, Brunet could still carve out a depth role if he impresses in the preseason.