Matt Grzelcyk, a Charlestown, Massachusetts native, has a new contract. He is signing with the Pittsburgh Penguins and for the next year. For the past eight years, he has been an integral part of the Boston Bruins, showcasing his skills on the blue line. Hailing from Massachusetts, Grzelcyk has formed a formidable partnership with the talented Charlie McAvoy, anchoring the team’s top pairing. But as the offseason approached, the winds of change have blown in a different direction.
Can confirm Matt Grzelcyk is signing with the #pens on a one-year deal at $2.75M.
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) July 1, 2024
Grzelcyk Has New Contract With the Pittsburgh Penguins
Growing up in the Charlestown neighbourhood, Grzelcyk always had a dream of playing for the Bruins. That dream finally came true on Dec. 14, 2016, when he made his NHL debut against the Pittsburgh Penguins. Interestingly enough, his first NHL goal also came against the Penguins in November 2017. And now he is a Penguin, talk about coming full-circle.
During his early professional years, Grzelcyk split his time between the NHL and AHL. However, he eventually established himself as a key player on Boston’s blue line during the 2018-19 season. Teaming up with his former Boston University Terrier teammate, McAvoy, they have become one of the league’s top defensive pairings.
In his inaugural season in Boston, the Bruins embarked on an extraordinary journey in the playoffs, battling it out until the very end in the Stanley Cup Final against the St Louis Blues. Unfortunately, Grzelcyk suffered an injury in Game 2 of the Final after a hit from Oskar Sundqvist. Despite the setback, he managed to contribute four goals and four assists in 20 playoff games.
During the 2020-21 season, after re-signing with the team, Grzelcyk showcased his potential as one of the Bruins’ premier offensive defensemen, tallying five goals and 15 assists for a total of 20 points in just 37 games played. His value to the Bruins remains immeasurable. His exceptional skating and ability to initiate plays from the defensive zone with his exceptional puck-moving skills make him an indispensable asset to the team.
Matt Grzelcyk boasts an impressive record of 8 seasons with the Bruins, tallying 25 goals, 110 assists, and a remarkable plus-minus of +137 in 445 games.
Boston Will Forever Flow Through Grzelcyk’s Veins
The Grzelcyk contract signals the end of an era in Boston. Grzelcyk’s determination to play in the NHL has been unwavering. Watching him represent the hometown Bruins has brought immense joy to the Grzelcyk family. Despite facing some challenges this past season, Grzelcyk’s determination remains unwavering. With his wealth of experience and expertise gained over the past 8 seasons, there’s no doubt he will bring his A-game to the great city of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Main Photo: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports
