Career Timeline of Charlie McAvoy: Major Achievements and Milestones

Discover the career path of Charlie McAvoy, from the first major opportunity to industry-changing achievements.

Charlie McAvoy is an American professional ice hockey defenseman and alternate captain for the Boston Bruins in the NHL. Drafted 14th overall in 2016, he is a key player for the Bruins.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements

2010: Played in Quebec International Pee-Wee Hockey Tournament

In 2010, McAvoy participated in the Quebec International Pee-Wee Hockey Tournament as part of the New York Rangers minor ice hockey team.

2012: Matt Grzelcyk drafted by the Boston Bruins

In 2012, Matt Grzelcyk, a future teammate of McAvoy, was selected as a third-round pick by the Boston Bruins in the NHL entry draft.

August 2013: Committed to play college hockey at Boston University

In August 2013, McAvoy made a commitment to further his hockey career by playing at the college level for Boston University.

2016: Selected in the NHL Entry Draft

In 2016, Charlie McAvoy was selected 14th overall in the NHL entry draft, marking the beginning of his professional hockey career.

2016: Highly regarded leading up to the NHL entry draft

Leading up to the 2016 NHL entry draft, McAvoy was highly regarded by scouts and considered one of the top four defensemen available, highlighting his potential in professional hockey.

March 29, 2017: Signed with the Providence Bruins

On March 29, 2017, McAvoy concluded his college hockey career and signed an amateur try-out agreement with the Providence Bruins, which is the AHL affiliate of the Boston Bruins.

April 12, 2017: NHL debut and playoff victory

On April 12, 2017, McAvoy made his NHL debut in a playoff game against the Ottawa Senators, which the Bruins won 2–1. Despite his lack of NHL experience, he played significant minutes and contributed to the team's success.

October 5, 2017: NHL regular season debut

On October 5, 2017, McAvoy made his NHL regular season debut in the Bruins' season opener against the Nashville Predators, where he scored his first regular season goal and recorded an assist in a 4–3 victory.

December 18, 2017: Scored a Gordie Howe hat trick

On December 18, 2017, McAvoy achieved a Gordie Howe hat trick (goal, assist, and a fight) in a game against the Columbus Blue Jackets, contributing to the Bruins' 7–2 win.

February 3, 2018: Return to NHL play

On February 3, 2018, McAvoy returned to NHL play after undergoing a procedure for supraventricular tachycardia, skating 18:51 in a 4-1 Bruins win against the Toronto Maple Leafs.

February 27, 2018: Overtime goal against Carolina Hurricanes

On February 27, 2018, during a game at TD Garden, McAvoy scored the overtime goal against the Carolina Hurricanes, contributing to a 4–3 home win and becoming the youngest Bruins defenseman to achieve this feat.

2018: Led defenseman in scoring at IIHF World Championship

In 2018, McAvoy led all defensemen in scoring at the IIHF World Championship with nine points, despite playing in only six games due to the Bruins' playoff schedule; his performance contributed to a bronze medal win at the tournament.

2018: Played in the World Championships

In 2018, McAvoy represented the United States at the World Championships.

September 15, 2019: Signed a three-year contract with the Bruins

On September 15, 2019, McAvoy, as a restricted free agent, signed a three-year, $14.7 million contract with the Boston Bruins, securing his place with the team for the near future.

February 5, 2020: First goal of the season

On February 5, 2020, McAvoy scored his first goal of the season in an overtime win against the Chicago Blackhawks, ending a scoring drought.

2020: Became a top defenseman on the Bruins roster

In the 2020 offseason, with the departure of key defensive players from the Bruins, McAvoy stepped up to become a top defenseman on the team and finished fifth in Norris Trophy voting.

October 15, 2021: Signed contract extension with the Bruins

On October 15, 2021, McAvoy signed an eight-year, $76 million contract extension with the Bruins, marking it as the biggest contract in the team's history at the time and securing his role with the team.

2021: Career highs in goals and assists

During the 2021-2022 season, McAvoy achieved career highs in both goals and assists, showcasing his offensive capabilities and consistent defensive presence for the Bruins.

November 10, 2022: Season Debut after shoulder surgery

On November 10, 2022, McAvoy made his season debut after recovering from shoulder surgery and scored a goal in the game.

December 1, 2024: Scored two goals in Bruins Centennial Game

On December 1, 2024, McAvoy scored two goals in the Bruins Centennial Game, contributing to a 6-3 victory over the Montreal Canadiens.

January 30, 2025: Named alternate captain for Team USA

On January 30, 2025, McAvoy was announced as an alternate captain for Team USA at the upcoming 4 Nations Face-Off tournament, marking his return to international competition.

June 16, 2025: Named to Team USA's preliminary roster for the 2026 Winter Olympics

On June 16, 2025, McAvoy was selected as one of six players to be included in Team USA's preliminary roster for the 2026 Winter Olympics.

2026: Selection to Team USA's preliminary roster for the Winter Olympics

McAvoy was named to the preliminary roster for the 2026 Winter Olympics for Team USA on June 16, 2025, showcasing his ongoing role in international hockey.