Photo: Getty Images
BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — A local hockey player is making his NHL debut for the Bruins against the Devils Thursday Night.
Marc McLaughlin, a Billerica, will get the nod for the Bruins Thursday, filling in for Craig Smith who is out with an illness. McLaughlin played four years with Boston College before signing with the Bruins on March 15.
He said he's feeling a lot of different emotions leading up to his debut for his hometown team.
"I'm definitely excited to say the least, obviously to get a chance to play in the NHL, but to wearing the Bruins sweater at the same is really special," McLaughlin said. "I just wanted to quickly say thank you to everyone who has helped me get to this point. My coaches, family, and friend, I couldn't have got here without you guys."
During his four seasons with Boston College, McLaughlin scored 40 goals and added 36 assists in 122 college games. He was a captain for his junior and senior seasons, as well as playing on Team USA at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics.
Bruins head coach Bruce Cassidy said McLaughlin is a hard worker and very professional in his approach to the game. He added he will fill in at right wing on the third line with Charlie Coyle and Trent Frederic, despite playing center for most of his career.
"We’ve asked him to just play his game," Cassidy said. "He had success in college for a reason, so stick with that and see how he kind of develops chemistry with his linemates and how his own individual game goes.”
Read More: Skippy Recalling Some Peanut Butter Products Sold In Parts Of New England
With McLaughlin being a Billerica native, he said he's expecting a lot of people at the game Thursday who will be there to cheer him on.
"Too many to count," he said. "A lot of family and friends so it should be great."
The Bruins face the Devils at 7 p.m. at the Garden.
WBZ's Brian Antonelli (@GuPogs) reports.
Follow WBZ NewsRadio: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | iHeartmedia App