For a team who has been known for their left cross more than their left shot, the Big Bad Bruins are looking to redefine their team in the offseason.

PHOTO CREDIT - USA Today

Boston - June 5, 2014 - While no one is expecting the Boston Bruins to suddenly compete “en masse” for the Lady Byng Trophy next season, there is no question the hard lesson Montreal taught of speed kills is not lost on Bruins management.

As an organization that has, in the past valued size as much as skill; who has traded the likes of Phil Kessel and Tyler Seguin. An organization that replaced them with less skilled, physical, two way system players. For a team who has been known for their left cross more than their left shot, the Big Bad Bruins are looking to redefine their team in the offseason.

Bruins President Cam Neely called it tweaking, but those who have followed this team and its development for years see it for what it is. A change in philosophy that mirrors more the championship teams in Detroit than the Big Bad Bruins of the past.

A physical, punishing style has been softened by the likes of Tory Krug and Reilly Smith, skilled, fast and deft players whose touch with the puck greatly outweighs their toughness in the corners. Bruins management left little doubt that the boxing hands of Shawn Thornton will most likely be replaced with (Chris Kelly’s ?) legs of speed on the 4th line. Iginla may return but it is unlikely it will be with Lucic and Krejci. Look for a first line makeover that adds quickness in place of punishment.

If Bruins management has their way the 2014-5 season will feature a Bruins team that will wear you down on the boards and with their legs…A muscle car more like a Corvette than Mustang, quickness that can corner, muscle that is more than grind and hustle. And if that is the trend in hockey overall, that is good for the game and for the sport.