During a press announcement on Saturday, Bruins' General Manager Don Sweeney revealed the emergency summoning of defenseman Ian Mitchell from Providence. Mitchell, obtained in a trade with the Blackhawks last offseason, which included Taylor Hall and Nick Foligno, has showcased a heightened performance on the defense this season during his fourth year. He has provided two assists in 12 games for Boston and one assist in four games for Providence.
Mitchell's comeback to the roster becomes pivotal, possibly standing in for the injured Charlie McAvoy after the Bruins' recent defeat against the Winnipeg Jets. Despite McAvoy rejoining the game, the upcoming consecutive matches against the Minnesota Wild cast doubt on his availability, increasing the likelihood of Mitchell being chosen to step into the lineup.
This unfolding situation arises amidst a tough period for the Bruins' defense, exacerbated by injuries to players such as Matt Grzelcyk, who couldn't accompany the team on their trip due to an unspecified injury. Mitchell's adaptability has been noticeable as he filled in for Parker Wotherspoon and Mason Lohrei, giving Head Coach Jim Montgomery essential alternatives in dealing with the team's defensive hurdles.
