Multiple fights break out between top Bruins and Blue Jackets players in prospect showcase

The first scuffle featured Bruins non-roster invitee Carlin Dezainde and 2023 7th round pick of the Blue Jackets Tyler Peddle. Dezainde scored at over a point per game in the WHL last season but was passed on in the draft for the second time, ending his draft eligibility. Understandably, he is trying to make an impression on the organization, so it is not surprising to see him drop the gloves. While Peddle was actually drafted two years ago, he remains an extreme longshot to make the NHL, especially on his scoring alone as he recorded just 18 points in 28 games in the QMJHL last season. As such, he is largely in the same boat as his counterpart. For this reason, both players will likely be happy with the scrap, but Peddle certainly appeared to emerge as the winner.

The second fight of the day was rather interesting as it featured two very different players. Charlie Elick, a 2nd round pick of the Blue Jackets this past season, dropped the gloves with undrafted prospect Charles Hilton, who is just 17 and is thus draft eligible for the 2025 draft. Hilton put up just 7 points in 32 games for the Ottawa 67s of the OHL last season, but he already stands at 6'5", making him a massive physical threat. Furthermore, he still has time to add height and weight to his frame, potentially making him one of the largest draft eligibles for 2025.

At leas one fan was appreciative of the fight, noting how good it was. In today's NHL we do not see lengthy, heavyweight fights very often anymore, so it is certainly a nice treat for fans that miss that aspect of the sport.

What is your take on fighting? Do you think it should be encouraged? What about the role it plays in the NHL? We have certainly seen a decline in the number of fights in recent years. Do you think that trend will continue? Let us know in our poll.