This Boston Bruins prospect could surprise many next season.

The Boston Bruins have some questions to answer at training camp. One is their depth on the wing, as they notably lost Jake DeBrusk and Danton Heinen in free agency. Because of this, there is a clear hole in the Bruins’ top six.

Bruins GM Don Sweeney did not add a guaranteed top-six winger in free agency, so several players will compete for the role this preseason. One of them is Bruins prospect Georgii Merkulov. While he primarily plays down the middle, he can also play on the wing and could be a dark horse for the 2RW role. However, he could also compete with Matthew Poitras for the club’s 3C role.

Merkulov has quietly become one of the Bruins’ top prospects over the last few seasons. After recording 24 goals and 55 points in 67 games with the Providence Bruins in 2022-23, he took his offense to a new level last season, posting 30 goals and 65 points in 67 games. Clearly, the 23-year-old is thriving at the AHL level, and he should be seriously considered for an NHL job this year because of it.

While Merkulov may not be the most talked-about prospect in the NHL, he has the potential to become an impactful player for the Bruins. With clear openings on their roster right now, he could make a case for himself with a strong training camp.

Merkulov’s offense down in Providence should excite Bruins fans. He is only continuing to get better, so don’t be surprised if he gets some real opportunities with the Bruins this upcoming season.