The Boston Bruins strengthened their roster on Tuesday by re-signing center Sean Kuraly to a two-year contract and adding winger Michael Eyssimont on a similar deal. These moves reflect the team’s effort to rebuild its core after missing the playoffs in the 2024-25 season for the first time in nearly ten years.
Bringing Experience and Energy to Rebuild Team Culture
Both Kuraly and Eyssimont are expected to play vital roles in restoring the Bruins’ identity under new head coach Marco Sturm. Known for emphasizing strong team culture, Boston aims to reignite the competitive spark that slipped away during their recent struggles. These energy forwards are tasked with adding grit and tenacity to the Bruins’ lineup.
Kuraly’s Familiar Presence and Veteran Leadership
A familiar face to Boston fans, 32-year-old Kuraly represented the Bruins in 270 regular season games and 57 playoff appearances between 2016 and 2021. After four seasons away with the Columbus Blue Jackets, where he experienced his career-low average ice time of 11:46 per game last season, Kuraly returns in excellent shape following his first-ever full 82-game season. His aggressive play style, participation in physical confrontations, and ability to contribute on special teams—such as the second penalty kill unit—make him a key figure for Boston’s bottom six. Last season, he added 17 points for Columbus while maintaining his reputation as a scrappy, dependable player.
Michael Eyssimont Adds Depth and Agitation to the Forward Group
Joining Kuraly is 29-year-old winger Michael Eyssimont, who is noted for his pest-like playing style and ability to fire frequent shots on goal. After spending three seasons with the rival Tampa Bay Lightning, Eyssimont brings a different edge to the Bruins. He averaged approximately ten goals per full season and will provide the energy needed to boost Boston’s performance in close games, where the team often faltered last year. Together, Kuraly and Eyssimont are expected to raise the physicality and pace of the Bruins’ lower lines.
Young Players to Benefit from Veteran Mentorship
Though neither Kuraly nor Eyssimont are projected to play heavy minutes, their professional approach and competitive attitude are likely to influence the Bruins’ younger forwards positively. Players like Fraser Minten and James Hagens stand to develop by observing and working alongside these seasoned players, which could help Boston solidify its depth and adaptability moving forward.
Additional Depth Signing Could Elevate the Bruins’ Bottom Six
Later Tuesday, the Bruins also signed Matej Blumel to a one-year contract reportedly worth $875,000. Blumel, a 25-year-old forward, impressed with 39 goals in 67 games for the Texas Stars in the AHL last season. His notable offensive potential could offer Boston a different dimension compared to the more established Kuraly and Eyssimont. With these three depth pieces combined, the Bruins’ lower lines in the 2025-26 season are expected to look considerably stronger and more dynamic.