Player Discussion Oliver Wahlstrom Claimed by Bruins

[Dr Hook]

I feel conflicted about the guy. There is that first round pedigree that tells you there is something better than your average NHLer there somewhere, and which we see flashes of at times, and he was a cheap pickup with a negligible salary. On the other hand, he hasn't been real effective for the most part and I find myself asking whether or not he gives the Bruins more than they already had. The answer is generally no.

Maybe they hang onto him and re-up him for next season on the same deal and give him a full camp and start of season to see if he can get it together. That would be okay, but so far, he hasn't impressed much.

 

[NDiesel]

I want to pull for the guy. Impression coming in was that he needed to be in an offensive role to out produce his limitations in other aspects. 1 goal in 14 games is pretty rough for that standard. His skating looks really off - like he maladjusted when rehabbing his knee.

If they're going long term with him, like they see something fixable and are looking to develop him into something through next season then I get it.

A lot like Brazeau though - They're offense first (and kind of only) and they're not producing.

I could see an argument for moving Braz for an asset and having Wahlstrom be his replacement, even though I'm a big Braz fan.

I don't think both of them in the lineup is feasible.

I think he competes, I would not cover him in dirt just yet.

Don't get me wrong, I like his effort, but this is more about giving the young guys the same leash he's getting to try and show they can produce.

 

[NDiesel]

I feel conflicted about the guy. There is that first round pedigree that tells you there is something better than your average NHLer there somewhere, and which we see flashes of at times, and he was a cheap pickup with a negligible salary. On the other hand, he hasn't been real effective for the most part and I find myself asking whether or not he gives the Bruins more than they already had. The answer is generally no.

Maybe they hang onto him and re-up him for next season on the same deal and give him a full camp and start of season to see if he can get it together. That would be okay, but so far, he hasn't impressed much.

I feel like I'm always one to be patient with guys so maybe with some more time and comfortability he can become something, but again why not give one of Lysell/Merk the same 14 games to see if they can steal his spot. I'm honestly surprised they haven't tried him with Marchand in the top 6, seems like it would be a better spot for his skillset.

 

[Dr Hook]

I feel like I'm always one to be patient with guys so maybe with some more time and comfortability he can become something, but again why not give one of Lysell/Merk the same 14 games to see if they can steal his spot. I'm honestly surprised they haven't tried him with Marchand in the top 6, seems like it would be a better spot for his skillset.

I would guess that is because Wahlstrom has decent size and has shown a willingness and some ability to grind and get dirty which is a role I don't think you ask of Merk or Lysell. Those two need a look in a scoring situation, like with Poitras and maybe a Frederic type on the other wing. Wahstrom's skating isn't looking good. I seem to remember he was a better skater, but then I guess wrecking a knee can do that. Maybe he just needs a proper off-season training regimen and a skating coach to try to get back. I'm okay with them persisting as it costs basically nothing (they'll have to pay someone at least that to fill the roster spot).

I also want to see our two young Providence guys get looks, so the Bruins can fish or cut bait with them. I don't know that Wahlstrom, right now, is blocking either, though.

 

[NDiesel]

I would guess that is because Wahlstrom has decent size and has shown a willingness and some ability to grind and get dirty which is a role I don't think you ask of Merk or Lysell. Those two need a look in a scoring situation, like with Poitras and maybe a Frederic type on the other wing. Wahstrom's skating isn't looking good. I seem to remember he was a better skater, but then I guess wrecking a knee can do that. Maybe he just needs a proper off-season training regimen and a skating coach to try to get back. I'm okay with them persisting as it costs basically nothing (they'll have to pay someone at least that to fill the roster spot).

I also want to see our two young Providence guys get looks, so the Bruins can fish or cut bait with them. I don't know that Wahlstrom, right now, is blocking either, though.

I get he has size and hits, but do we really need more of that or do we need more offense? Think it's an obvious answer, you can shuffle the lines around to make it work stylistically.

But I digress, I'm just starting to get a bit frustrated with how the Bruins handle their forward prospects, probably unjustifiably putting it on Wahlstrom, who has looked fine but needs to produce. Beecher probably needs to sit before him.

 

[Dr Hook]

But I digress, I'm just starting to get a bit frustrated with how the Bruins handle their forward prospects,

Same. I've felt that way for a long time, now.

 

[goldenblack]

I'd like to see him not take those penalties. Otherwise has looked fine.

 

[Kegs]

Is he a better option over top performing PBruins? You can see some
Skill/shooting skills. Are the offensive zone penalties something to be concerned about? Tough call. I liked some of his game last night.

It is a tough call. I’d like to see lysell. Other than lysell I don’t love any of the forwards. Merkulov maybe. I’m not a fan of his size and speed. Merk does deserve another good look though. I’m sure some injuries will happen and we will see these guys though.