In September, the Boston Bruins took a chance on Danton Heinen by offering him a professional tryout contract after a lackluster stint with the Pittsburgh Penguins. However, his efforts during training camp and preseason led to the Bruins signing him to a one-year NHL contract in October, with a salary cap hit of $775,000.
Since returning to Boston, Heinen has outperformed his previous season with the Penguins. In 60 games this season, he has amassed 12 goals and 14 assists, compared to 8 goals and 14 assists in 65 games with Pittsburgh in 2022-23. Heinen’s reunion with the Bruins has been fruitful, with coach Jim Montgomery rewarding him by placing him on a line with David Pastrnak and Pavel Zacha.
Heinen acknowledges the chemistry developing with his linemates, emphasizing his role of supporting them offensively while also focusing on defensive responsibilities in the neutral and defensive zones.
Beyond his offensive contributions, Heinen has been a valuable asset on special teams, participating in penalty kill and power play situations, and averaging over 14 minutes of ice time per game.
Expressing confidence in his abilities and enjoying his time with the Bruins, Heinen has demonstrated he still has much to offer. Whether or not the Bruins choose to extend his contract, his improved performance likely positions him for a contract elsewhere in the league, potentially with a higher salary than his current NHL minimum.