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Bruins Center Takes Criticism For Negative Traits

Originally posted on Inside The Rink | By Matt Barry | Last updated Oct 21, 2025 2:05 PM ET

The Boston Bruins started the season with three wins, but have lost four straight since and are now playing towards their more realistic expectations. Last spring, the Bruins were major participants during the trade deadline. Some of the assets they acquired were draft picks and young players that might help shape the future. The Bruins also obtained the last two years of center Casey Mittelstadt’s contract at $5.75 million per season. The skilled forward has talent, but might lack in another important quality.

During a segment on Frankly Hockey with Frank Seravalli, analyst Craig Button dropped this honest take regarding the Bruins’ top-six forward:

“I’m going to be really straightforward. I’ve watched Casey for a long time. I don’t think it’s about Casey lacking skill. I think it’s about Casey lacking competitive spirit. So, if you want a player with a little bit of skill and can tease you a little bit, and doesn’t compete, Casey’s your guy.”

Button also said that if there are teams looking for help in a potential postseason run, they should stay away from Mittelstadt, who has scored two goals in the first seven games of the season. The Bruins are trying to play a more defensive style, and Mittelstadt struggles in that regard. The former first-round draft pick is good with the puck and can pass to set up teammates, but his compete level sometimes fades, and that might cause the Bruins to look to move him.

The problem is, who would take him with that cap number and the questions about his desire at times? If Boston is out of the mix come March, the General Manager is sure to put Mittelstadt on the market. He will just need a taker.

This article first appeared on Inside The Rink and was syndicated with permission.

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