The Boston Bruins have unexpectedly chosen not to extend an entry-level contract to Reid Dyck.
OR
Reid Dyck has unexpectedly chosen not to sign an entry-level contract with the Boston Bruins.
Some people think that Dyck rejected the Bruins because he assessed their depth in the goalie position and sought an alternative route. However, it seems questionable why he would agree to sign an ATO under those circumstances. And it’s not like he can pick his destination since he has to re-enter the draft.
It would be detrimental for a CHL goalie to intentionally avoid signing an ELC and try to choose his destination strategically. Benjamin Gaudreau, who was considered a top prospect, was drafted in the third round of the 2023 NHL Entry Draft. He decided not to sign with the San Jose Sharks due to concerns about their goaltending prospects. His agent stated, “We’re not afraid of competition. Just didn’t feel like a good fit.” However, his decision has not led to success so far.
At 20 years of age, Dyck is also much younger than most goaltenders in the Bruins system: Linus Ullmark (30), Jeremy Swayman (25), Brandon Bussi (25), Kyle Keyser (25), Michael DiPietro (24) and Philip Svedeback (22). Even Ryan Bischel who is signed to an AHL only contract is 24. By the time Dyck would be ready for the NHL, most of those goalies could be wearing a different jersey.
The more likely scenario:
Bob Essensa, Mike Dunham, and the development team may have thought that Dyck had not progressed enough to deserve an ELC. Dyck showed significant improvement this season, and I contended that he was the most valuable player for the Swift Current Broncos, envisioning their team without him would be difficult. The Broncos recognized this by selecting him as their MVP at the season’s end.
I will not doubt Essensa or Dunham regarding goaltenders, if this is in fact the case. Their track record speaks for itself, so I trust they are right once more.
As for Dyck, the opinion of the independent scouting community may differ, but ultimately, the NHL clubs’ perspectives are paramount.
We’ll find out what they think at the 2024 Entry Draft.
