When the Boston Bruins return to the ice this fall, they’ll feature several new faces, including the significant additions of Nikita Zadorov and Elias Lindholm. However, they’ll also miss some notable players like Jake DeBrusk and Matt Grzelcyk, who signed elsewhere this summer.
One intriguing new addition is Max Jones, signed to a two-year, $2 million deal, with an average annual value of $1 million. Despite the modest contract, Jones, similar to previous low-cost signings like Danton Heinen and James van Riemsdyk, could exceed expectations under general manager Don Sweeney.
Jones, born on February 17, 1998, in Michigan, is 26 years old and stands 6-foot-3, aligning with the Bruins’ preference for size. His father, Brad Jones, was a former NHL player with 148 games for the Winnipeg Jets, Los Angeles Kings, and Philadelphia Flyers.
Jones joined the United States Development Program, playing for their junior team in the USHL during the 2014-15 season and also represented the US national U17 and U18 teams. In the 2015-16 season, Jones switched to the OHL, joining the London Knights. He was part of a talented roster that included Mitch Marner and Matthew Tkachuk, scoring 52 points in 63 games. The Knights won the Memorial Cup that season, though Jones played in only six playoff games due to a suspension.
Despite being projected as a top-ten pick, Jones was selected 24th overall by the Anaheim Ducks in the 2016 NHL Draft due to concerns about his discipline and playmaking abilities. After spending two more seasons in the OHL, he made his NHL debut for the Ducks on January 16, 2019. He split time between the NHL and AHL, scoring his first NHL goal on March 8, 2019.
Jones’ best NHL season was in 2022-23, with nine goals and 19 points in 69 games. However, injuries hindered his development, including missing nearly all of the 2021-22 season. With the Ducks deciding not to offer him a new contract, Jones became an unrestricted free agent.
The Bruins aim to get bigger and tougher, adding Zadorov on defense and Jones among the forwards. Jones’ low-risk contract could yield significant rewards, similar to past signings. Although not expected to be a top scorer, he could become a valuable bottom-six forward contributing 10-15 goals. A change of scenery might benefit Jones, much like Trent Frederic, who improved under head coach Jim Montgomery. Jones’ ability to draw penalties also adds value to the Bruins’ roster.
Boston offers Jones a fresh start, potentially unlocking new aspects of his game. Even if he remains primarily a physical presence with around 15 points, his low cap hit makes him a worthwhile addition.