INSIDE HOCKEY

Well, Bruins general manager Peter Chiarelli certainly stuck to his word in that the Bruins did not make any big splashes on the first day of free agency. That said, they were able to take care of one of the “Big Three” restricted free agents by re-signing big-bodied forward Byron Bitz to a multiyear deal. Also, Chiarelli shocked Boston fans by announcing the signing of former Canadien energy player Steve Begin.

Begin is mostly known in Boston for his antagonizing acts against Bruins’ players such as a crosscheck to Marc Savard’s back that kept Savard out of action towards the end of the 2008-2009 regular season. Still, however, Begin said he is excited to be a Bruin and to play again for Claude Julien. In terms of the Bruins, Begin specifically was attracted to their physical and intense play and Julien’s ability to get the best out of his players (Begin cited another former Canadien, Michael Ryder’s resurrection in Boston as an example of Julien’s great coaching).

In today’s conference call, Chiarelli noted that the Bruins acquired Begin as a replacement for veteran center/penalty-killing and shot blocking extraordinaire Stephane Yelle. Chiarelli expects Begin to fit the “tough to play against” mold and is excited about adding Begin’s versatility to the lineup. Both Chiarelli and Begin were not concerned with Begin’s past run-ins with Bruins holding true to the mantra that the past is the past in hockey.

Bruins fans can also expect Bitz to be in the starting lineup come opening night of the 2009-2010 season. Bitz rapidly ascended the pro ranks this season. Initially called up as an injury replacement, Bitz was never sent back down to Providence and became the perfect example of what the Bruins look for in players: attention to all 3 zones, physicality, and a willingness to go to the dirty areas of the ice.

In his call with the media, Bitz expressed that he never really considered himself a free agent and wanted to stay in Boston. Bitz now plans on using the offseason to continue to improve his skating (generally a work in progress for players of his size) and to add on some muscle. Barring any other moves, Bruins fan can expect Bitz to be manning the 4th line with Begin and Shawn Thornton in 2009-2010.

Chiarelli made note that he is not finished with free agency and still has his own guys to resign, along with looking at some unrestricted targets. He did not comment specifically about Phil Kessel or Matt Hunwick, and today’s signings should not be indicative of the Bruins parting ways with either of these two. That said, although there have been none yet, offer sheets could be coming to these young speedsters and then the tough decisions begin for Chiarelli. Keep checking Inside Hockey throughout the night as Chiarelli said there certainly could be more action from the Bruins camp shortly.

OTHER INTERESTING NOTES FROM TODAY’S CALL

• In buying out Peter Schaeffer, Chiarelli took the “philanthropic” role in letting him get a shot with another team as opposed to being buried in the minors.
• Chiarelli believed today’s free agent frenzy was indicative of a more conservative/ cautious market.. The Bruins have been planning on taking this approach the entire offseason.
• Chiarelli said that 11-year Bruin veteran, P.J Axelsson is currently exploring free agency for possible destinations but will touch base with Boston.