Hockey can be quite amusing.
At the start of this NHL season, Danton Heinen was without a contract. He had performed well in training camp under a tryout agreement, earning a spot on the roster. However, due to financial constraints, the Bruins had to wait until Oct. 30, two weeks into the season, to sign him to a one-year deal worth $775,000.
Now, he finds himself playing on the top line with David Pastrnak and Pavel Zacha. He has accumulated 13 goals and 15 assists for a total of 28 points, recording points in six of his last eight games. He also has a plus-8 rating and regularly takes the ice for penalty kill duties.
Quite impressive for the league minimum salary.
“The game is full of uncertainties, right?” remarked Heinen on Thursday. “There are highs and lows. I'm just delighted to be part of it and eager to further my progress.”
With the salary cap remaining largely stagnant last summer, it was a challenging financial landscape for many players seeking contracts. The Bruins were significantly impacted by this, having to trade two high-salaried players in Taylor Hall and Nick Foligno. Nonetheless, they were able to benefit from the situation by bringing in Heinen on a tryout basis and adding two other players, Morgan Geekie and Jesper Boqvist, to the lineup who were not retained by their respective teams last summer.
With the expectation of a more substantial increase in the salary cap compared to last summer, it’s likely that Heinen has improved his market value. However, he is not content with his achievements.
“I believe there's still more I can offer,” he expressed. “I think I can have a greater impact on the game. Nevertheless, it's important to me to be dependable and maintain a high level of professionalism on a daily basis. That's what I aim to do.”
The duration of his stay on this line remains uncertain. Coach Jim Montgomery is known for adjusting his lines frequently, and as Boston’s most versatile player, Heinen has seen time on all four lines at some point.
As Montgomery looks to finalize his lineup with the playoffs approaching, Heinen has the opportunity to secure his position in the lineup.
“I feel like things are progressing well,” Heinen observed. “I'm focused on improving with each game, growing more comfortable with my teammates, and I always seek to understand their preferences. It’s encouraging to see Pasta scoring three last game, so I just aim to contribute in any way I can.”
During his initial stint with the B’s, Heinen had limited exposure to Pastrnak. However, upon his return, he has witnessed significant growth in the superstar.
“You can see his development as a leader within the team,” noted Heinen. “On the ice, he has truly come into his own. When he entered the league, he was just a kid. People don't often recognize the intensity of his play, the battles he wins to generate offense, and his relentless pursuit of the puck. I think that aspect is sometimes overlooked.”
Heinen has also displayed progress in his game since being traded to Anaheim at the 2020 deadline, ultimately landing with the Penguins for two years. He has heightened his determination in puck battles and showcased a strong hockey IQ since returning to Boston.
Pastrnak said that he thinks the player is still the same, but has gained more experience from being on great teams and meeting top players, which has become a big part of their team.
It's uncertain what the future holds for Heinen. He loves playing there and the team vibe, but there's no news yet on a contract extension. His performance in the playoffs could influence whether he stays or not.
He has learned not to look too far ahead from his journey.
Heinen said he ignores that stuff and just tries to have fun while playing.
So far, that strategy has worked well for him.
Paying the price
Montgomery was impressed by Justin Brazeau's dedication as he stayed in Boston to work out even without an NHL contract last summer.
Montgomery mentioned the noticeable transformation in Brazeau's body, emphasizing the need for dedication and effort to grow as a person.
Brazeau stayed in Providence and commuted to Boston for workouts.
Brazeau expressed his satisfaction being recognized for his hard work and dedication.
Loose pucks
Montgomery mentioned that van Riemsdyk was not completely healthy, despite skating after being designated as a scratch for two games.
Montgomery explained that van Riemsdyk was dealing with some health issues and suggested that playing his 1,000th game might not have helped him.
Van Riemsdyk had been ill and lost 12 pounds, while Maroon returned to the ice after back surgery performed on Feb. 7.
Montgomery said that Maroon is on his way back, still described him as week-to-week.
