Austin Czarnik was supposed to be a difference maker.
Czarnik played 49 games during the 2016-17 season, appearing mostly as third line center for the Bruins. He recorded 13 points and had a 54.7 percent Corsi for (CF) making a positive impact in his first year of NHL action. However, Czarnik was unable to make an impact in Boston.
He appeared in only ten games, only because of injuries and Brad Marchand's five-game suspension. He notched four assists in those ten games, providing secondary offense. Czarnik's limited impact might tempt him to look for opportunities elsewhere.
Czarnik has proven to be a tremendous possession player throughout his 56 career games. His CF percent during that span is 55.2 percent. He generates offensive through his passing and ability to see the ice and dissect plays. His combination of quickness and vision allow him to be crafty with the puck.
In 64 games with the Providence Bruins, Czarnik recorded 25 goals and 69 points, which placed him third in the league. His 44 assists were good for sixth in the AHL as well. In Coach Bruce Cassidy's up tempo, attacking system, Czarnik's ability to create passing lanes could benefit the Bruins' bottom six attack.
"We've had discussions with Austin. I think Austin is intrigued by what may exist elsewhere," general manager Don Sweeney recently told reporters. "We certainly haven't closed the door, I don't think he has as well, but I would be surprised if he doesn't get to at least to see what may present itself as options for him."
There are 10 forwards are under contract for next season for the Bruins, while four are unrestricted free agents (only Tim Schaller is a restricted free agent). The Bruins have been linked to Ilya Kovalchuk and could bring in another forward if management deems necessary. If the Bruins re-sign even a couple of their pending free agents, Czarnik would face an uphill battle to find minutes in Boston instead of Providence.
Czarnik's path to remaining in Boston is if the Bruins cut costs and choose not to re-sign Riley Nash. Nash, the team's third line center, will definitely command a raise from the $900,000 he made on his last contract. After producing 41 points, the veteran center could sign a contract that earns him between $2-3 million a season. Czarnik's lack of NHL playing time could prove costly to his negotiations, as he will likely earn less than a million on a short-term contract.
Nash is all-around solid in many areas, but he doesn't particularly stand out anywhere. His career year helped stabilize the Bruins third line and provide scoring from somewhere other than the top six forwards. Czarnik could provide the same offensive punch at a fraction of the cost, which would allow the Bruins to splurge in other areas.
If the Bruins bring back Nash, Czarnik's desire to play at the NHL level will cause him to explore other opportunities.
