The Boston Bruins have trimmed their roster down to a final lineup, featuring Danton Heinen as the extra forward. They also sent Mason Lohrei to the AHL, opening enough space to sign Heinen (or another forward) to a cheap contract. However, general manager Don Sweeney said Boston is still weighing their options with Heinen, who will continue to practice with the team.
This is surprising news, as all signs pointed towards Heinen being the final feature of Boston’s opening-day lineup. The 28-year-old forward was originally drafted by Boston in the fourth round of the 2014 NHL Draft. He made his debut with the Providence Bruins at the end of the 2015-16 season and made his debut with the Bruins in the following year, but it wasn’t until 2017-18 that Heinen received his full rookie season. He played in 77 games that year, recording 16 goals and 47 points and adding one more goal in nine playoff games. And while a strong rookie year, Heinen took a step back in his sophomore year – recording 11 goals and 34 points in another 77 games.
Heinen would go on to play a third year in Boston, before being traded to the Anaheim Ducks for Nick Ritchie. He would play in one full season with the Ducks before they failed to extend him a qualifying offer and made him an unrestricted free agent. Heinen signed with Pittsburgh out of free agency, appearing with them in each of the last two seasons and totaling 55 points in 141 games. But, facing free agency again this off-season, Heinen couldn’t find a new contract elsewhere; ultimately settling for a PTO with his original club.
Heinen’s pending contract is the final uncertainty facing Boston’s opening day lineup. The Bruins open their season on October 11th against the Chicago Blackhawks. Even if he does sign, it’s unlikely that Heinen suits up for this game, giving the Bruins a bit more breathing room with making a final decision.