Boqvist Finds A Spot
Jesper Boqvist was in an uncertain spot over the summer. The young – but veteran – forward did not receive a qualifying offer from the New Jersey Devils, with whom he spent the first four seasons of his NHL career, making him a free agent.
But on July 12, some two weeks after the start of free agency, the 25-year-old – who had 10 goals and 21 points for the Devils last season – was inked by the Bruins to a one-year contract.
“I feel like I still believed in myself,” said Boqvist. “I still had a good summer coming into this season, too, and I feel like I’ve taken steps even though I started with Prov. That’s what I wanted to do is come in here and take steps and win hockey games…good last couple weeks here.”
Boqvist did not make the club out of training camp and had just single-game stints with Boston on Oct. 26 and Dec. 15. The third time around, however, has been a charm for the Sweden native, who has played in eight straight games since being recalled in early January.
“System-wise, compete level, you have to bring it every day,” said Boqvist. “But most of all the system, I feel like I’ve learned that – still learning, but it’s better now than coming into camp not knowing anything.”
The 6-foot-1, 184-pounder tallied 10 goals and 23 points in 31 games for Providence this season, an experience that certainly helped familiarize him with the B’s system.
“I would say a lot,” Boqvist said of how his time with the P-Bruins helped his growth. “The first game I had early on compared to the Tampa game the last couple weeks here, I feel way different, how I can be successful in this system with this playing style. It feels way different for sure. It’s been helping me a lot for sure.”
Boqvist will once again ride alongside Heinen and Matt Poitras against the Jets after the trio put forth a strong showing in the B’s win over Montreal on Saturday night.
“Obviously Heinen had a really good game last game, and Potsy, too, I feel like,” said Boqvist. “I feel like we complemented each other pretty good. Hopefully we have another good game tonight.”
