Articles / Bruins’ Top Pair Needs to Change Amid Its Struggles

Bruins’ Top Pair Needs to Change Amid Its Struggles

T
The Hockey Writers
Oct 24, 2025 7:45 PM

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The Boston Bruins have faced a significant challenge with their top defense pair of Charlie McAvoy and Matt Grzelcyk struggling to find their rhythm this season. Despite their solid past performances, recent games have highlighted their defensive lapses and inconsistency, prompting discussions about potential changes to the pair. The Bruins have relied heavily on McAvoy’s skill and Grzelcyk’s speed, but teams are now exploiting their weaknesses, leading to goals against that could have been avoided.

In the matchup against the New York Islanders, their defensive mishaps were glaring, as both players appeared out of sync, struggling with puck management and positioning. The Bruins’ defensive strategy thrives when their top players perform at peak capacity, but with the current struggles, it may be time for a reassessment. Coach Bruce Cassidy needs to consider whether pairing them together is still the best option or if reshuffling could lead to better overall performance.

Changing defensive pairs isn't easy, and it might take some time for the adjustments to settle. However, a new configuration could spark McAvoy and Grzelcyk to regain their form and contribute more effectively to the team's defensive efforts. As the Bruins gear up for the rest of the season, they need their top players to step up and significantly impact the game before it’s too late in the playoff race.