The Boston Bruins announced this week that they have reached a two-year agreement with Swiss winger Attilio Biasca, locking him in at an average annual cap hit of $980,000 according to NHL.com’s Mark Divver. The deal brings a fresh offensive option to a franchise that has been probing the free-agent market for depth scoring.
Biasca arrived on the international stage as one of Switzerland’s top wingers during the recent World Championship, where he skated alongside New Jersey Devils center Nico Hischier and star forward Timo Meier. His chemistry with those NHL-experienced players highlighted his ability to thrive in high-pressure situations.
The 23-year-old’s résumé includes a productive stint with HC Fribourg-Gotteron in the Swiss National League, where he recorded 15 goals and 27 points this season, as well as previous experiences with EV Zug and a memorable junior career with the Halifax Mooseheads of the QMJHL. In 118 games with the Mooseheads he amassed 81 points, and he added 11 points in 13 appearances at the World Junior Championships.
While the contract suggests a North American return, Biasca is expected to begin the season with the Bruins’ AHL affiliate, the Providence Bruins. However, his performance in training camp could force a call-up, potentially slotting him into Boston’s bottom-six lineup if he can translate his European success to the NHL rink.
A Swiss Impact in Boston
Coaching staff have hinted that the organization values his size — 6-foot-1 and 195 pounds — and his versatility on the wing. If he can maintain the scoring touch that made him a standout in Switzerland, the Bruins may find a cost-effective solution to bolster their depth as they chase a playoff push.