If Neely thinks that then why haven't they drafted/developed talent this way? The young talent currently making an impact with the B's is Pastarnak, Krug, Hamilton, Spooner, Smith, Ferlin, Florek, Griffith, Morrow, Trotman etc. not too many of these guys fall into that tougher, grittier category. While Neely can preach "big bad bruins" the younger core, fringe roster guys aren't really fitting that makeup. I think there needs to be realistic expectations from management when looking for a piece to make this team successful instead of forcing them into something they aren't.

Forwards going into next season
Loui- Krejci - Connolly
Marchand- Bergeron - Smith
Lucic - Spooner - Pastrnak
Talbot - Kelly - Ferlin/Griffith

Chara - Hamilton
Seidenberg - Trotman
Krug - Miller
Morrow should be with the big club next season.

While they could resign McQuaid/Soderberg I think a couple teams may overspend on these guys plus it probably isn't worth it to the Bruins to pay top FA $ for guys they can replace for cheaper from within without losing a ton of production.
- tunmasterflex

I wish you were able to search your own posts on this forum, because I listed an idea I had for a projected lineup that was almost EXACTLY this a little while ago. Except I kept McQuaid in there because I love that dude.

So obviously I agree that's probably what the lineup will look like next year, but I think that was before Chiarelli was fired. With the new GM coming in, I think they are going to end up making some big moves this offseason... but I can't imagine what they'll be.

(Traaaaaaade Chara!)