Kyle Chauvette’s journey from college goaltender to NHL emergency backup goalie (EBUG) has taken a distinctive path shaped by recent changes to league regulations. The University of New Hampshire senior found himself in an uncommon position this season as the Boston Bruins’ official EBUG, a new role established under the NHL’s latest collective bargaining agreement.

Chauvette’s unusual entry into professional hockey began in March, shortly after his collegiate season ended with UNH’s loss to Northeastern in the Hockey East playoffs. Just a day later, he received an unexpected phone call from his agent offering a last-minute opportunity to serve as the San Jose Sharks’ emergency backup goalie for a game against the Bruins at TD Garden. He accepted and made the roughly 75-minute drive to Boston to suit up with the Sharks, backing up starter Alex Nedeljkovic after Yaroslav Askarov sustained an injury.

That brief stint as San Jose’s EBUG introduced Chauvette to NHL life, and it also led to a connection with Bruins goalie coach Bob Essensa, who suggested that the evolving EBUG system might provide new opportunities. Under the updated collective bargaining agreement, NHL teams are now required to employ a full-time emergency backup goalie who travels and practices with the team throughout the season—a departure from the previous system that relied on local amateurs or minor league goalies summoned on an as-needed basis.

Chauvette, having to decide between pursuing a professional playing career in leagues like the East Coast Hockey League or accepting the Bruins’ offer for their full-time EBUG role, chose the latter. He viewed it as a unique opportunity that allowed him to remain closely involved with an NHL team while keeping the door open for future playing possibilities.

Since joining the Bruins, Chauvette has embraced his multifaceted responsibilities, which include participating in practices, stepping in during morning skates, and supporting the main goaltenders—Jeremy Swayman and Michael DiPietro—by sharing the workload. The Bruins have welcomed him as part of the team, with players noting his positive attitude and seamless integration.

“It’s been cool traveling with the team and getting to experience new places,” Chauvette said during a recent road trip in Dallas. “The guys have really made me feel like one of the players.” He acknowledged that adjusting to the new role took some time, both for himself and the staff, since the arrangement is unprecedented in the NHL.

Essensa praised Chauvette’s progress and noted the increasing demands that lie ahead as the season intensifies, particularly during stretches when starting goalies receive rest. He emphasized Chauvette’s dedication, highlighting his willingness to take extra reps and contribute wherever needed.

In addition to on-ice duties, Chauvette has taken part in video scouting and player evaluation alongside Bruins’ staff, drawing on his previous experience coaching young goalies. This expanded exposure to the professional side of hockey operations is complementing his development in his new role.

Chauvette’s story underscores the broader changes underway in how NHL teams manage emergency goaltenders, blending the traditional backstop role with professional development opportunities. His first season as the Bruins’ EBUG reflects both an individual and a league adapting to new standards in player readiness and team support.