BOSTON: Trevor Kuntar is demonstrating that he is a capable rival to the Little Ball of Hate.
At Bruins training camp, the former Boston College Eagle is making an impression with his tough, sometimes annoying demeanor as well as his good touch around the net.
The boisterous nature of the left winger reminds me a lot of a teenage Brad Marchand. Particularly in terms of the amazing capacity to irritate opponents to the point of distraction. He intends to make full use of their irritating qualities.
Kuntar, 23, stated, “It’s definitely a huge part of my role.” It was something I developed a tolerance for. I enjoy playing hard and competing. adore using a little bit of edge when playing. Many people find it objectionable. I’ve discovered that the older I become, the more I appreciate it and the more people don’t. I’m hoping I can make people stop playing. It simply increases my interest in the game.
At TD Garden on Sunday afternoon, Kuntar’s skills were on full display as the Bruins fell to the New York Rangers 3-2 in a preseason game. The trio, which included Patrick Brown and center Jaxson Nelson, skated on the fourth line and contributed a lot of energy.
After trailing 2-1, Kuntar ignited the Bruins’ comeback by seizing a rebound from a drive by Nelson. The left winger tied the score with a backhander that he shoveled past Rangers goaltender Dylan Garand.
Throughout, the tough winger engaged in many altercations with Rangers, successfully gaining the upper hand.
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According to Kuntar, “I think I can always affect the game positively, whether I’m scoring, blocking a shot, or winning a battle.” “I just try to keep the game positive and have a positive impact on it every day.”
Being compared to Marchand is Kuntar’s greatest compliment. Over the years, the former BC Eagle has seen the Bruins captain change from a relentless workaholic and ultra-pest to a legitimate NHL All-Star and 100-point player.
Kuntar remarked, “He’s had such a great career.” He’s played at the edge, and I really like him for that. He is undoubtedly the captain and an excellent leader. He competes and gives it his all each and every day. I would like to do that and hopefully bring it to Boston at some point.
It has been an incredible experience getting to know Marchand and the other veterans, defying any preconceived ideas.
“You get star struck when you see everyone on TV,” Kuntar remarked. But you quickly understand that they’re just regular guys if you spend time with them. This organization’s members have all been really amazing. They truly are inclusive. Their goal is to assist us and give us a sense of belonging. The best thing is that they treat everyone equally.
The Bruins selected Kuntar, a 6-foot, 205-pound forward, in the third round of the 2020 NHL Entry Draft. The Buffalo native played in 70 games for the Providence Bruins the previous campaign, tallying 20 points and 10 goals. Previously, he played three seasons at Boston College, where in his junior year he held the position of assistant captain.
Jim Montgomery, the coach of the Boston Bruins, claims that Kuntar has many intangibles on the ice.
“He’s a feisty energetic winger that plays with a lot of edge,” said Montgomery. “We find that appealing. Hockey players usually seem to be near the puck, and he does too.
Kuntar is aware that he will have the opportunity to join the Bruins roster at some point during the season, if past performance is any guide. All he has to do is observe how forwards Johnny Beecher and Matthew Poitras both advanced to the next level last season.
Naturally, Kuntar stated, “I want to make the team.” “Hopefully, as I play my style of hockey, I’ll (open some) eyes.” I play on the edge and score as part of a distinct style. I want to be the most diligent player on the ice when I enter a game. not lose any games, complete my checks, play hard, and behave toughly while near the net.
He will quickly become a mainstay on Causeway Street if he accomplishes that.
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