Since arriving from Ottawa on Feb. 15, 2011, in exchange for a 2012 second-rounder, Kelly has been a perfect fit for coach Claude Julien’s defense-first system. Kelly is a responsible pivot who has earned Julien’s trust in clutch situations. When the Bruins are leading late in games, Julien often tabs Kelly, Bergeron, and Rich Peverley for the final shifts because of their hockey sense, defensive acumen, and faceoff strength.
