Since joining the Boston Bruins training camp, the 6-foot-1, 204-pound forward has faced the challenge of competing alongside towering teammates. The Two Harbors, Minnesota native has embraced this challenge, using his relentless work ethic, hustle, and determination to earn a spot on the Bruins’ opening night roster. Koepke played on the fourth line against the Florida Panthers, and while the Bruins suffered a tough loss, he and his linemates, Johnny Beecher and Mark Kastelic, stood out as bright spots in the 6-4 defeat.
“I think it’s been good,” Koepke said last week at Warrior Arena. “I’ve been learning a lot. This group has been really welcoming. The coaching staff has helped me adjust to the systems. I’m pleased with how I’ve been playing, and they’re doing a great job keeping me on track and pushing me to excel.”
In five preseason games, Koepke has made his mark, scoring a goal and adding an assist, with eight shots on goal. Competing for a role among the Bruins’ bottom six forwards has been a significant challenge, especially with teammates like Justin Brazeau (6-foot-6), Beecher (6-3), Max Jones (6-3), Kastelic (6-4), and Riley Tufte (6-6). Although he may be smaller, Koepke compensates with his hustle and energy.
His impressive play has certainly caught the attention of Bruins head coach Jim Montgomery. “I like how he manages the puck,” Montgomery noted. “His speed and tenacity stand out. He’s causing turnovers, which lead to odd-man rushes and more offensive zone time. He’s been creating those opportunities frequently, and I like those aspects of his game.”
A three-year letterman and Hobey Baker nominee for the Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs, Koepke was drafted by the Tampa Bay Lightning in the sixth round (183rd overall) of the 2016 NHL Entry Draft. He made his NHL debut with the Lightning on October 11, 2022, at Madison Square Garden, playing 17 games in his first season and scoring a goal. He added two assists during a nine-game stint last season.
Seeking a new opportunity, Koepke signed a one-year, two-way contract with the Bruins on July 1, 2024. “All you can ask for is a chance,” he said. “I knew there would be opportunities here. For me, it’s about playing my game and showing how I can help the team win, because that’s the ultimate goal. I want to showcase my abilities and give my best effort every time I’m on the ice.”
So, what can Bruins fans expect from the former Bulldog? Determined play, of course. “They can expect a lot of speed,” Koepke stated. “I’ll bring energy to the forecheck and relentless effort. If I don’t succeed on the first try, I’ll keep pushing for that second, third, and fourth effort. I just want to be a solid team player and do whatever it takes to help us win.”
“Playing in the NHL is the ultimate goal,” he added. “Doing it for an organization like this would be an incredible honor. I’m pushing myself to earn my spot on the team.”
Leave a Reply