With the Bruins still without Brad Marchand, coach Bruce Cassidy has had to move some pieces around to see what fits. A part of of the puzzle that has done well is the second line with Trent Frederic, Charlie Coyle and Craig Smith.
Cassidy had nothing but good things to say about Frederic's game following an optional skate on Sunday morning. "Now that he's out on the ice a little more, he's figuring out when to get in, to stick his nose in situations, to start some things or stir the pot," said Cassidy. "So, you know, that's good for the team."
As for playing alongside Coyle, Cassidy believes it's an advantage for Frederic's development. "Frederic is still learning to use his body to protect puck, so he has a guy that can do some of that for him and learn from," said Cassidy.
Cassidy has always seen Frederic and Coyle as a good match, but because of different circumstances over the past few seasons, they haven't always been able to make it work. "They're a good marriage, and I've always thought that, it's just, as I said, there's different reasons why they've been apart," said Cassidy.
Coyle has stood out on the second line, netting one vs. the Rangers on Tuesday and earning an assist in Ottawa on Saturday night.