2011-2012 Boston Bruins Report Cards: Adam McQuaid

Adam McQuaid's last action in the 2011-2012 came on April 5 in a game against Ottawa. He played only seven minutes, and left the game early, never to return to the ice the rest of the season. McQuaid, it turned out, had suffered a concussion on March 29 when Jason Chimera of the Washington Capitals slammed into him from behind.

Last year, every player's grade benefited from the Bruins' Cup run. "Looks like an A to me", remember? But this year, the Bruins' disappointing first round exit at the hands of the Caps should in the same way deflate the grades. McQuaid, however, might actually be helped by it

McQuaid played 72 games in the regular season, producing two goals and eight assists. McQuaid was a +16, averaging 14:57 a game being paired mostly with Dennis Seidenberg.

His worth isn't really quantifiable through basic stats, though. Combined with Seidenberg, McQuaid was a steady, reliable second-pairing defenseman. He provided a tough, physical presence, with 104 hits and dropping the gloves six times. He won all six fights, according to Hockeyfights.com. McQuaid will probably never develop first-pairing skills, but he is very valuable on the second pairing.

His value was shown in the playoffs, even though he did not play. His size and strength would have been nice to have to match up with Washington's big forwards. His unspectacular but reliable puck-moving skills were also missed, and he's obviously an upgrade from Mike Mottau or Joe Corvo.

McQuaid had a solid, steady season. His absence in the playoffs showed his worth to the Bruins.

Grade: B