Bruins GM Reveals the Real Reason Matthew Poitras Was Sent to the World Juniors

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Pat Quinn
December 20, 2023 (10:16)

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Matthew Poitras made the Boston Bruins out of training camp as a 19-year-old. What is amazing about the feat is that no one expected him to do so a year after being drafted, and not only that but he was a second round selection in 2022.

Poitras has a respectable 13 points in 27 games on the season, but the NHL schedule, larger opposition, and overall grind of the season has seen him look a little slower to react on the ice than when he started.

Sending Poitras to the World Junior Championship gives him a new challenge

Matthew Poitras was sent to the World Junior Championship two days after the last Bruins game where he had one assist in 14:44 of action. It was kind of a surprising move given that there really did not seem like there was a strong indication he was being sent down.

Boston Bruins GM Don Sweeney discussed Poitras' experience in the NHL so far:

"The league gets tougher, and he's navigating that in the first six months. You can talk to a player about it, but they need to live it�going on the road, facing new match ups, realizing the teams are solid and closing you off."

Sweeney noted his performance this season as well:

"It's a steep learning curve, and he's handling it well. Even after a few mistakes, he maintains confidence, learns from experiences, and applies those lessons."

Poitras' season so far has been positive

Don Sweeney did talk about how impressed he was with Poitras this season. Sweeney knows Head Coach Jim Montgomery has been a positive influence on the rookie, while also teaching him how to be a professional. Discussing the on-ice coaching he said:

"Players go through ice time adjustments; it's part of the journey. It's a learning opportunity, rebounding the next night, ensuring positive communication and preserving confidence."

With Poitras joining the World Junior Championships he should have a starring role with Canada in the top-six. It is unknown if he will return to the Bruins roster after the World Juniors but either way this has been a tremendous season for the rookie.

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