Clifton Thriving In Providence

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*Edited by: @AlyssaHertel

PROVIDENCE - Despite the Providence Bruins 0-2-0-0 record over opening weekend, one player in particular stood out.

Connor Clifton is in his second season with Providence, and last season he made enough of an impact for the Bruins to sign him to a two-year NHL contract. The 23-year-old defenseman spent four seasons at Quinnipiac University, earning captaincy for his senior season, before moving on to professional hockey. Last season in Providence, he tallied four goals and nine assists for 13 points. Don’t let those stats fool you though, Clifton has been a beast since joining the team.

Despite not putting up big numbers, Clifton is a player who can get the game going. He is easily able to move the puck through the neutral zone and make plays to help the offense. He’s a fluid skater who ultimately will become a big part of the Providence power play and offense all season long.

Clifton likes to take risks aggressive, sometimes that’s good and other times its bad. Over the weekend, Providence continually gave up two-on-one’s nearly resulting in a goal each time. Clifton certainly needs to work on his puck management but it is already much better this season than it was last season.

The New Jersey native is not the biggest guy on the ice, but he won’t shy away from a hit when it needs to be made. He’s an aggressive player who, over time, will learn how to manage the puck better.

Although Clifton probably won’t see any time in Boston during the season, the Bruins should feel comfortable knowing that he’s in their system. He can be a very reliable guy who knows how to move the puck and use his body to his advantage.

He didn’t record a point over the weekend but he was certainly a standout player in both matches against the Hartford Wolfpack and Laval Rocket. Clifton showcased his speed and upgraded puck management skills throughout the games, constantly making plays and jumping into offensive rushes.

Bruins fans should be excited about him, he seems to improve his game the longer he’s on the ice as well as each year he’s played since college.