Cam Neely On Felger & Mazz: The Plan For Soderberg, Plus An Update On Bergeron
Felger and Massarotti were joined by Boston Bruins President Cam Neely to talk about the arrival of Carl Soderberg, Patrice Bergeron's concussion, and Claude Julien's line adjustments.
With reports coming out Tuesday that it's a "done deal" between the Bruins and Soderberg, Neely couldn't confirm the news.
"I haven't talked to Pete today," Neely said. "I haven't heard yet about any release from the [Swedish Ice Hockey] Federation, but I know from our perspective things were looking good."
Neely said that if Soderberg is able to join the Bruins in the coming weeks, the plan is for him to be a part of the team and contribute down the stretch and into the playoffs.
"I think we'd like to try him on the wing first and see if he's comfortable there," Neely said. "Obviously playing center at this level is not as easy as it may appear, with the coverage down low and in both corners. That part of the game takes some time, but who knows how quick a study he may be. Right now our thoughts are to see how he does on the wing."
Felger asked Neely why the Bruins believe Soderberg can play at the NHL level.
"He's played against men in the Swedish Elite League and has had success doing it," Neely said. "It's just a matter of getting adjusted to the North American style. ... But he's a big body, protects the puck well, he skates well, he's got a good shot. Really, we've gotta temper this a little bit, if he does get over here, based on getting adjusted to this style of game."
Neely also offered an update on Bergeron, who suffered a concussion last week. Neely said he does feel more optimistic about the prospects of Bergeron returning than he might have a few days ago.
"It's tough to say with concussions," Neely said. "Things change day to day. It's hard for me to really say until I see him going through practices and drills where he doesn't have any issues, but my hopes are that he does get back, obviously."
Neely Discusses Carl Soderberg, Bergeron's Concussion, and Julien's Line Adjustments
98.5 The Sports Hub is the only place to hear every game of the Boston Bruins season with Dave Goucher and Bob Beers. Pregame coverage begins 30 minutes before the puck drops, with Postgame coverage following each game.
