Tell me if you've heard this one recently...

Milan Lucic is returning to Boston, and boy, is he excited!

Since signing his one-year, $1 million contract to return to the Bruins, the franchise has made it its number one goal to ensure its fans that the 35-year-old is over the moon to return to the organization that drafted him, experiencing the best statistical years of his career, and won a Stanley Cup.

I am all for the "feel good" story. Lucic signing with the Bruins to likely finish his career is just that. He was a beloved member of the organization during his tenure with Boston. Still, there comes a time when we have to move past the "isn't that special" stage of this reunion and shine a little light on what he will provide the team this season.

Since departing from Boston in 2015, Milan Lucic hasn't been the same player. Okay, that's not entirely true. He had one strong year with Los Angeles, one with Edmonton, and then it was all downhill from a statistical standpoint. After scoring 20 goals with the Kings in 2015-16 and 23 goals with the Oilers the following season, Lucic has failed to get over the 10-goal mark in a season. Considering that he earned $6 million annually for the past seven seasons, it's hard not to place the word "disappointment" next to his name, at least from an expectations perspective.

Now, is all of that Boston's problem? Well, no, it's not.

If the Bruins traded for the current version of Milan Lucic while he was still making $6 million a year, we would have plenty to criticize. Fortunately, that is not the case. The Bruins paid the fourth-line/13th-forward rendition incarnation of Lucic the kind of money someone in that role deserves.

Bruins brought Lucic back into the fold to provide a level of toughness that was missing last season, along with experience and leadership. They do not expect him to factor into the team much in terms of statistical contributions, viewing him as a member of the fourth line who can transition to a 13th forward, playing more of a platoon role with the squad.

Now, one could argue that bringing Lucic back to Boston didn't make much sense when considering fit and necessity. In truth, plenty of people feel like the Bruins should not have added him to the roster. However, at $1 million during a one-year transition period, Lucic doesn't hurt the franchise's long-term prospects. The acquisition needs to be viewed as a once-beloved Bruin coming back for one more dance to pass down wisdom and experience to younger players while giving the fanbase a little of that nostalgia we all love.

Still, the Bruins social media team can calm down with the "coming home" content. We get it!

Join the Discussion: » 65 Comments » Post New Comment

» What do the Bruins do now?

» Tackling the Jake DeBrusk Trade Chatter

» Let's Talk Bergeron

» New Bru: What can the Bruins expect from James van Riemsdyk?

» "Dog Days" Ramble Session pt.1