The Dispersal Draft is always an interesting start to the off-season roster movement and this time was no different. The Bruins didn't really want to lose any of their unprotected players, but in the end three players would leave the club (unless they were picked up by the club).
Center Dominic Moore, rugged winger Shawn Thornton and d'man Greg Zanon were picked up by the Nashville Predators, Chicago Blackhawks and New York Islanders respectively. We wish them good luck and the Bruins organization thank them for their time and efforts with the club. Losing Shawn Thornton was especially difficult as he was loved by the fans. But we know he'll find a good home in Chicago.
With the first round pick the Bruins couldn't miss the opportunity to pick veteran star d'man Chris Pronger, who had been a long-time serving player of the Pittsburgh Penguins. Because of injury, he won't be able to play more than around 25% of the regular season. However, should the Bruins make the playoffs, Pronger will be eligible to play in every game and could turn out to be a tremendous boost.
In the second round, the Bruins needed to fill the gap at center. A solid two-way center was of interest which is why veteran Jeff Halpern (from the Winnipeg Jets) was picked up. He should be able to replace the departing Dominic Moore well and also give the penalty kill some help.
And with the final pick, another forward was needed to replace Shawn Thornton on the checking line. No one can really replace him, but we felt that Jamal Mayers of the Winnipeg Jets was the best fit, considering what was available at that point. We like the fact that he can play all three forward positions and also has good faceoff skills which should help on the fourth line. The fact that he can drop the gloves is also a bonus.
