Quartet of Forwards Waiting for the Call in Providence

The Bruins have four forwards licking their lips in Providence.

Seth Griffith, Alexander Khoklachev, Austin Czarnik, and Frank Vatrano have a combined 174 points in 150 total games for the Providence Bruins. Griffith (46 GP: 19-41-60) is second in the league in points, despite playing eight less games than the player who he is tied with. and Frank Vatrano currently has as many goals as games played (25: 25-11-36). Czarnik is third among rookies in the scoring race, and Khoklachev has proven in past seasons that he can dominate AHL competition with his offensive craftiness (also has 47 points in 42 contests this campaign). These four would be a welcome addition to most NHL rosters and certainly ready to compete at the next level.

Any of these forwards would be a nice fit on the Bruins' roster and could provide necessary scoring on the back end of the forward unit. However, all four fit the same mold currently: a third line scoring forward. Vatrano and Khoklachev are offensively gifted, but have not built up the two-way game necessary to be dynamic in the NHL. Czarnik would fit well as a fourth line center due to his offensive instincts, passing ability, and outstanding motor.

If there is a trade of Loui Eriksson, Vatrano or Griffith would be able to adequately produce on the third line. Depending on the shuffling of the roster as the season winds to a closure, one or more of these four could see some time in Boston. Until then, they are just waiting in the wings.