The Boston Bruins have locked in defense prospect Frederic Brunet with a two-year contract extension, signaling their confidence in his potential. The deal, featuring an $875,000 cap hit, is structured as a two-way contract for the 2026-27 season before transitioning to a one-way deal in 2027-28.
Brunet, a promising 22-year-old, was picked up by the Bruins in the fifth round of the 2022 draft after initially going undrafted. Since turning pro from the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League at the close of the 2022-23 season, he’s been honing his skills with AHL Providence.
Standing at 6’3″ and weighing 201 pounds, the left-handed defenseman has developed into a compelling call-up option for the Bruins. Over 173 AHL games, he’s posted an impressive 18-49-67 scoring line with a +38 rating, achieving career-highs this year with 11 goals and 28 points.
Despite his growth and potential to become a key third-pairing player-or even higher in the lineup-Brunet has yet to see significant NHL action. He made his NHL debut in the final game of the regular season against the Devils last year but hasn’t been called up this season.
Instead, the Bruins have opted for more seasoned players like Michael Callahan and Victor Söderström for NHL duties. However, the difference in talent between Brunet and these players isn’t particularly wide.
Brunet’s solid two-way performance in Providence and his NHL-ready build suggest he’s poised for more substantial opportunities in the coming seasons. The Bruins’ decision to offer a one-way contract for 2027-28 reflects their expectation that he’ll be contending for a roster spot by then. For now, Brunet avoids restricted free agency this summer, extending his time with the Bruins and setting the stage for another potential RFA status in 2028.