Latest Update: Three positions Bruins should address before trade deadline…
The Boston Bruins find themselves in a situation akin to last year’s trade deadline, where they are contenders for the playoffs but face certain issues requiring attention.
Despite a 4-3-5 record post-All-Star break, the Bruins currently hold the second position in the Eastern Conference, tied with the Florida Panthers at 84 points.
With the trade deadline looming just a week away, here are three positions that the Bruins ought to consider addressing by March 8.
Defense:
Boston’s defense has been plagued by injuries throughout the season, highlighting the need for additional depth. Matt Grzelyck and Derek Forbort have collectively missed 42 games due to injuries.
Moreover, their performances this season have been underwhelming. Forbort has notched zero goals and four assists in 34 games, while Grzelyck has managed two goals and six assists in 46 games. Cam Neely, President of the Boston Bruins, emphasized the necessity of bolstering the defensive lineup, citing the need for another sturdy defender to complement Charlie McAvoy.
Center:
The retirement of veterans Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci prior to the 2023-24 season left a significant void in the Bruins’ lineup, necessitating reinforcements at the center position. While Charlie Coyle and Pavel Zacha have performed admirably this season, there have been occasional inconsistencies in their performance during the latter half of the season.
Despite reported interest in Anaheim Ducks center Adam Henrique, the Bruins face challenges due to limited cap space and draft assets. Neely acknowledged the team’s thin resources and hinted at the possibility of enhancing the bottom section of the lineup with more grit.
Scoring Winger:
Following the departure of wingers Tyler Bertuzzi and Taylor Hall in the offseason, the Bruins are in search of additional scoring depth on the wings. Despite ranking seventh in goals scored (204), the team still lacks offensive firepower.
Jake DeBrusk’s inconsistent form has been a concern, while players like Coyle and Trent Frederic have contributed significantly alongside Pastrnak and Marchand. However, acquiring another winger to amplify offensive capabilities remains a priority.
Players like James van Riemsdyk and Morgan Geekie, acquired through free agency, have performed well, but Boston could benefit from further bolstering their offensive arsenal.
To mount a formidable Stanley Cup challenge, the Bruins must prioritize acquiring reinforcements in defense, a top-six winger, and a center before the March 8 deadline.
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