EXTRA POINT: The NHL’s Biggest Surprises and Disappointments

Tweet Photo courtesy of gobonnies.com BY: JOHN NELSON; STAFF WRITER ST. BONAVENTURE, N.Y. — The National Hockey League season is in full swing, and several teams have already emerged as early surprises. The Boston Bruins sit atop the Atlantic Division with an 11-4-1 record through 16 games. Unlike last season, Boston has received production throughout its lineup rather than relying on captain David Pastrnak. Young forwards James Hagens, Matthew Poitras, Fraser Minten and Marat Khusnutdinov have played significant roles in the Bruins’ early success. Fraser Minten, 22, has been particularly good. Through 16 games, Minten has posted five goals and five assists. If the Bruins continue to see production from their young core, combined with the veterans’ presence, they could emerge as a serious contender heading into the playoffs. The Utah Mammoth have also exceeded expectations.

This excerpt comes from the named source. Read the original for the full reporting.