The Boston Bruins might be enjoying their Olympic break, but down in the AHL, their affiliate in Providence is showing no signs of slowing down. The Providence Bruins came out of the All-Star break looking like they never left, riding a red-hot 10-game win streak into the pause and immediately extending it with two more statement victories. That’s 12 straight wins, and they’re doing it with a name you might not have expected leading the charge.
No, it’s not Matthew Poitras. Not Fabian Lysell.
Not even Georgii Merkulov. The breakout star right now?
Defenseman Frederic Brunet.
Brunet Building a Case for Boston
Boston hasn’t had to lean on Providence for reinforcements much this season, especially on the blue line. Head coach Marco Sturm has been able to roll with a consistent defensive group at the NHL level. But if that changes - if an injury opens the door - Frederic Brunet is making a compelling case to be the next man up.
He’s not just logging minutes; he’s delivering when it matters most.
On Saturday, Brunet found the back of the net in a 4-2 win over the Bridgeport Islanders - Providence’s 11th straight victory. Then, on Sunday, he took it a step further, burying the overtime game-winner to seal a 3-2 win and push the streak to a dozen.
It’s not just about the goals, though those certainly help. It’s the timing, the poise, the ability to rise in big moments. That’s what’s turning heads.
“Such a special group,” Brunet said after the win. “We do such a good job working together.
I think night in and night out, sometimes it doesn't go our way and we never give up. We're always confident.”
That confidence is showing. And Brunet’s emergence is a testament to the depth Boston has quietly built in its system.
A Prospect Who’s Earned His Shot
Let’s be honest - Brunet hasn’t been the flashiest name in the Bruins’ pipeline. He made his NHL debut last season but has largely flown under the radar.
That’s not a knock on his game; it’s more a reflection of how tough it’s been to crack the Bruins’ blue line in recent years. But with the way he’s playing right now, it’s getting harder and harder to ignore him.
The front office deserves credit here. For all the scrutiny Don Sweeney’s drafting has faced over the years, Providence is stacked with young talent that’s developing the right way. Brunet’s growth is a prime example - a player who’s put in the work, waited for his opportunity, and is now making the most of it.
If Boston runs into trouble on the back end down the stretch, Brunet should be at the top of the call-up list. He’s not just producing - he’s showing leadership, composure, and a knack for coming through when the game’s on the line.
Providence is rolling, and Frederic Brunet is right in the middle of it. Don’t be surprised if the next time you see him, it’s in a Bruins sweater at TD Garden.