Defenseman Dougie Hamilton will become a major asset for the Boston Bruins. It may take him a while to grow into his 6-foot-5 frame and firm up his defensive zone work, but the skilled passer will assist the power play from the moment he arrives in the NHL.

The lockout allowed him to return to the Ontario Hockey League’s Niagara Ice Dogs for additional seasoning this season. He scored eight goals and added 33 assists in 32 games before heading to Russia to play for Team Canada in the World Junior Championships.

There has towered over the competition as Canada won its pool to earn a medal round bye.

“We were resilient and hard working,” Hamilton told reporters after he helped dispatch Russia 4-1. “We scored goals at the right time. I think we’re getting better and it’s exciting looking forward.”

Hamilton figures to get his first NHL taste this season. How much more can he accomplish playing against guys his age?