Charlie McAvoy and the Bruins: A Look at the Olympic Break and Beyond

The Boston Bruins experienced a dynamic Olympic break, with players scattered across international competition. While some, like David Pastrnak and the Lindholm brothers, saw their Olympic journeys end in the quarterfinals, others, including Charlie McAvoy and Jeremy Swayman, continue to compete for a spot in the gold-medal matchup at the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. The break provided a crucial opportunity for rest and recalibration as the Bruins gear up for a strong finish to the season.

Alex Steeves’ Breakthrough Season

Before this season, Alex Steeves had played a maximum of seven games in a single NHL campaign. Now, the 26-year-old forward has surpassed the 38-game mark with the Boston Bruins. Recalled from Providence in November, Steeves quickly established himself as a valuable asset, earning a well-deserved two-year contract extension in January. Adapting to the NHL’s demanding pace and schedule has been a transition, but Steeves has proven effective throughout the Bruins lineup.

“I think it’s really important,” Steeves shared. “The schedule has been a bear, and it’s going to be a bear right when we pick back up. As players, you get used to it, but you also fight to avoid things like burnout and fatigue. For a lot of guys – those playing heavy minutes, and even guys like me finding my way in my rookie year – it was good to take a step back and let the body and mind rest a bit, and reinvigorate ourselves.”

Rookie Impact and Coaching Perspective

Steeves is one of three rookies making a significant impact on the Bruins this season, alongside Fraser Minten and Jonathan Aspirot. Each has embraced their responsibilities and contributed to the team’s success. Head coach Marco Sturm believes the break is particularly beneficial for these young players.

“It’s almost like a summer break for them,” Sturm explained. “They can regroup, and now they know exactly what to expect. I’m going to keep things similar to training camp, so there are no questions. They’re free to just play the game and focus on consistency, which is the biggest challenge for young players. Overall, they’ve done a really good job.”

Steeves’ Performance and Future Outlook

Through 38 games, Alex Steeves has recorded 16 points (nine goals, seven assists) and was on a two-game point streak before the break, including a goal against the Tampa Bay Lightning in the Stadium Series and an assist against the Florida Panthers. He’s eager to maintain this momentum when the Bruins resume play on February 26 against the Columbus Blue Jackets.

“It is great to be back,” Steeves said. “We’re shaking off the rust, but things don’t look too rusty. I think guys are excited. I missed my teammates. It’s a great opportunity to work harder in the gym and dial in on our systems and special teams.”

Olympic Updates and Team Return

Boston anticipates the return of several players from Olympic duty in the coming days. Charlie McAvoy and Jeremy Swayman (USA), along with Henri Jokiharju and Joonas Korpisalo (Finland), are still in contention for a medal. Sturm emphasized a gradual return to game-like intensity.

“We want to slowly get back into game-like situations, starting with drills and focusing on attitude and mindset,” Sturm stated. “A lot of things will definitely pick up.”

Steeves confessed to being captivated by the Olympic games, adding, “All I know is if Canada and U.S. play in the final, I am going to have a heart attack if it goes to overtime. I was on edge yesterday, for sure, cheering for the U.S. boys to bring it home.”

The Bruins are poised for a strong finish, fueled by the energy of their returning Olympians and the continued development of promising rookies like Alex Steeves. The impact of players like Charlie McAvoy will be crucial as they navigate the final stretch of the season.