Neely On Felger & Mazz: Hamilton 'Has So Much Poise' For Rookie
BOSTON (CBS) - 98.5 The Sports Hub's Felger and Massarotti were joined by Boston Bruins President Cam Neely on Tuesday to talk about the hot start from the Bruins, and rookie sensation Dougie Hamilton.
The Bruins announced on Monday that Hamilton will not be sent back to Juniors, and remain with the Bruins for the rest of the lockout-shortened season. The 19-year-old has looked great in his first five games as a pro, notching four assists and fitting right into the Bruins defensive scheme.
"I'm surprised he's adjusted to the pace the way he has," said Neely, who added the Bruins were surprised -- but obviously excited -- when Hamilton fell to them with the 9th overall pick in 2011. "He has so much poise out there. It's impressive to watch a young kid like that know where he's going to move the puck and move it quickly, and also understand he can delay at times for half a second and open a passing or shooting lane. (He'showing us) his high IQ out there."
"To jump in with a limited camp and contribute the way he has, not just offensively but playing smart defensively.Using his big body, his reach, he puts his stick in the proper lanes; all that stuff you hope comes, but it's come a lot quicker than a lot of us thought," said Neely.
The Bruins stressed in the week leading up to the season that with only 48-games on the schedule getting off to a hot start was a must. They've stood up to that task, earning nine of a possible 10 points over their first five games.
"We've come out pretty solid right from game one. There are periods in every game where we dip off a bit, but overall we've played extremely well. All four lines have played well, the goaltenders have played solid for us, and the confidence is there. Our team knows how we have to play to be successful, and for the most part we're doing it every night.
Is Neely happy with what he's seen from forward Milan Lucic so far? And how would he assess the play of netminder Tuukka Rask? Also, is "staged fighting" becoming an issue in the NHL? Hear Neely's take as he joins Felger & Mazz on 98.5 The Sports Hub!
Cam Neely discusses The B's Hot Start
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