Getting to Know Boston Bruins Draft Pick Elliott Groenewold
Discussion around the Boston Bruins’ draft priorities has largely focused on the center position. In the first round, the Bruins picked up a big center, Dean Letourneau, at number 25 overall. Defense is another area where the Bruins have become thin in their prospect pool, especially after Mason Lohrei’s emergence this season. While the NHL team has a solid defensive group, the future remains uncertain following recent picks like Frederic Brunet and Jackson Edward. Identifying a need, the Bruins traded up 112 spots to draft Elliott Groenewold at pick 110.
Elliott Groenewold, set to join Quinnipiac, was selected by the Bruins in the fourth round on the second day of the NHL Draft. To secure the 110th pick, the Bruins traded with Minnesota, swapping forward Jakub Lauko for forward Vinni Lettieri in the process. The 18-year-old Vermont native played in the USHL with Cedar Rapids, Iowa, scoring five goals and 11 assists in 57 games. The 6-foot-2, 200-pound defenseman hails from Bellows Falls and was ranked 66th by Central Scouting among North American skaters.
According to Elite Prospects, Groenewold’s high-paced, high-aggression defensive style is notable. He excels at locking down threats near the net, intercepting passes, and handling complex defensive situations. When defending against the rush, he pivots early and forces attackers wide.
This offseason, Boston has emphasized adding size across all positions. Many of their acquisitions, whether through the draft, trades, or free agency, have been players six feet tall or taller. Groenewold has the potential to develop into a strong two-way defenseman, and his time at Quinnipiac should aid in his development. The Bruins have amassed a wealth of talent in this recent draft, and Elliott Groenewold could prove to be a valuable pick.
