Boston Bruins Sign Trent Frederic

The Boston Bruins announced on Tuesday that they have signed Wisconsin sophomore centerman Trent Frederic to an entry-level contract.

Frederic was a surprise first round pick by the Bruins in the 2016 NHL Draft, when they selected him 29th overall, despite most projections pegging Frederic as a second or third rounder. Frederic quickly justified Boston’s faith in him, however, with a strong freshman season in Madison last year, posting a 15-18-33 scoring line in 30 games.

Frederic put up similar numbers in his second year with the Badgers this past season, but showed a greater overall maturity to his game. He put in serious work in the weight room to become physically stronger, and at times looked like a man against boys with his ability to win puck battles in tight areas.

He is a responsible two-way player with an above average ability to handle the puck and find passing lanes, making him an offensive threat. Skating remains a bit of an issue for him, but his hockey IQ should help allow him to make up for that.

Frederic will report to Boston’s AHL affiliate for the rest of the season, and then his three-year contract will begin at the start of next season. In the long-term, Frederic projects nicely as a second or third line center for the Bruins that plays a responsible game, while still contributing decent offensive production.