Happy Camper

A defensively minded center, Camper has the skill to put the puck in the net as well as the ability to shut down big name scorers; exactly the type of player upon which this team is built. After all, the acquisitions of Peverley and Kelly last year were not meant to be season changing additions, but they quickly rose to stardom through their combination of skill, work ethic and intensity. This is exactly the type of player the Bruins need right now, as they have made it clear they are not going to be making any big name trades. They passed on Columbus’ Rick Nash, and have not made any legitimate efforts to land another NHL superstar, and why should they?
With Dougie Hamilton on reserve as their next big defensemen, and plenty of potential with the team as it is, the best thing for the Bruins right now is to promote from within. This would negate any reason for Chirelli to risk another Kaberle- type trade, where the B’s dealt away quality players and future draft picks for a washed up former star. So for now, Camper is the best solution to the Bruins problems. His successes in Providence reveal that he has the ability to both perform and produce at the top level. His past has shown that he can grind along the boards, win critical face-offs (5/8 face-offs against St. Louis) and put up big points when it counts. So is Camper the final piece to this Bruins puzzle?
At this point only time will tell. At 5 ’9 173 lbs he’s not going to be making any highlight reel hits or take down any big players, but his ability to work hard, capitalize on opportunities and bring a new outlook to the game is exactly the type of play that is going to force Julien to keep him in Boston. So as for tonight, as long as we see Camper doing the small things, the minute details of the game on which the Bruins pride themselves, he will find a place in this system, and maybe say goodbye to Providence once and for all.