Morning Hits II: Bruins Not Friendly for Young, Elite Players? Leafs Lines

“I wouldn’t say that,” said Charlie Jacobs, when posed the question if there’s a perception that Boston isn’t a friendly place to play for elite, young hockey players. “I think they all left under their own set of circumstances. Things happen for a reason. Those players mentioned were all very good; some better than others. But it is what it is. I would hope there’s no rush to judgment where somebody is saying that Boston isn’t a good place for young players to play.”

President Cam Neely and management are paying attention to it.

“We obviously take a hard look at something like that,” said Neely. “It’s something we’re aware of, and we have to build an organization where we’re drafting and developing, and developing not just on the ice but off the ice as well…expectations for the organization, and what do we expect from a professional hockey player that’s going to play for the Boston Bruins.

“We have to help nurture them. It’s a tough transition for a young player going to a big city where it’s really focused on the sport, and don’t really know anybody outside of the game. It’s something we’ve looked at…how we do improve the club from top to bottom both on and off the ice.”