Boston Bruins‘ undrafted 2nd year center Austin Czarnik(27) had an amazing rookie season establishing himself as a real threat despite his small 5’9″ 160 lbs. frame.
The American-born skater took a bit of a long route to turning pro but started early at age 16 in the top junior programs in the country, first with US National U18 Team in the NAHL and a year later on a similar squad but a step up to the USHL.
He even stayed for a third year playing for Green Bay Gamblers before heading off to Miami University (Ohio) to have four very productive seasons, including a Hobey Baker Award finalist nod as a sophomore and serving as captain in his last two campaigns, while also winning the 2015 NCAA/NCHC Championship.
Right after that victory he would sign a 2-year entry level deal and join Providence Bruins for three AHL games registering his first pair of pro assists.
The 23-year old’s 41 assists and 61 points would lead all first year players, finishing third overall in team scoring and plus/minus with a +17.
He would then add 2 goals and an assist in three Calder Cup Playoff contests.
A somewhat late cut from training camp, he did receive an emergency NHL recall last in the season and there’s little doubt he’ll be looking to parlay all of it into a roster spot for the upcoming season.