All stats courtesy of hockeyreference.com
My first player profile of the year is on now-former Bruins forward Noel Acciari! Acciari played in 72 games for the Bruins last season, in which he produced six goals and eight assists. He then played in 19 playoff games for the team on their run to Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final, through which he recorded two goals and two assists. Signed as an undrafted free agent by the Bruins prior to the start of the 2015-16 season, Acciari has appeared in 180 career NHL games, over which he has produced 18 goals and 13 assists. He has also played in 35 career playoff games as well, in which he has recorded four goals and three assists. The 27-year-old center and wing signed a three-year contract worth $5 million ($1.67 million AAV) with the Florida Panthers as an unrestricted free agent on July 1st and will be leaving the only organization he has known in the Bruins over his four-season NHL career.
Acciari has never been one to dazzle you with his amazing offensive talent and creativity, instead choosing to work hard and play a strong, clean, physical game, as well as be reliable defensively. Last season was no different, as he put up just 14 points but killed penalties, stood up for his teammates when necessary, and was overall a strong physical presence whenever he was on the ice. Head coach Bruce Cassidy also showed that he trusted him to get the job done defensively, as Acciari started 65.7% of his shifts in the defensive zone, while also playing against other teams’ top lines during some games. He, Kuraly, and Wagner made up one of the best fourth lines in the league last season, and Cassidy often started them during home games to set the tone. That shows you how good they were as not many coaches would have the confidence to play their fourth line in those situations. But, getting back to just Acciari, he’s a hard-nose, blue-collar player that was perfect for Boston. For a fourth-liner, he also had surprisingly good possession numbers, with a 49.9 Corsi-for percentage at even strength. He was also a -3, which isn’t bad considering his role and the fact that he would often see some shifts against opponent’s top lines. Finally, he’s a warrior and willing to battle through injuries, defend his teammates, and do whatever it takes to win. It is sad to see him go, but that was way too much money to spend on a player like him, so I get it.
Obviously next season, the Bruins can’t expect anything out of him except that they are going to play against him at most four times during the regular season. But, Panthers fans, you’re getting a good one. He’s a great guy on and off the ice, and like I said, he is willing to do whatever it takes to win. All of what I said above is true, and since he’s 27, it’s safe to say that’s what you can expect from him again. He’s being paid way too much for a fourth-liner, but he’s good in his role and will always give 100%. You can’t expect a lot in terms of offense, but he does chip in occasionally, and it tends to be at good times. Acciari will add good depth to your organization and can be counted on in a wide variety of situations. He’s a heart and soul type of player, and you’re lucky to have him. Thank you for your time as a Bruin, Noel, and best of luck in Florida!
Hockey Addict 