The Boston Bruins acquired Pat Maroon and Andrew Peeke at the trade deadline. Maroon, 35, is a rental player
aiming his fourth Stanley Cup. Peeke, ten years younger, isn’t.
The right-shot defenseman is part of the Boston Bruins’ long-term blue line strategy. Peeke solidifies a position that
may not require much offseason development.
The right-shot defenseman is part of the Boston Bruins’ long-term blue line strategy. Peeke solidifies a position that
may not require much offseason development.
Other considerations include forward and goalkeeper positions.
The Bruins expect to save around $18.5 million from 2023-24, including the $4.5 million incentive overage owed to
Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci. They’ll have to set aside a big portion of that money for Jeremy Swayman’s next
deal.
Even after Swayman’s rise, the Bruins should have enough of money to spend on center and wing upgrades. That
figure might possibly rise if they deal Linus Ullmark and his $5 million cap cost.
For now, the Bruins are content in the middle. Charlie Coyle and Pavel Zacha are reliable three-zone centers. They
have very closely approximated Bergeron and Krejci’s 2022-23 versions.
Matt Poitras could end up in the three-hole position if he recovers properly. Johnny Beecher should be more at ease
as the heavy No. 4 center next season. Jesper Boqvist will not require a large raise. Georgii Merkulov might make an
NHL breakout.
If the Boston Bruins re-sign Jake DeBrusk, their available cash will decrease. They need a top-six winger. However,
the sides dispute on the 27-year-old’s worth. He may prefer to see what is out there. If this is the case, the Bruins will
look for additional wingers. They don’t want to hurry Fabian Lysell, one of their top prospects, if he’s not ready to be
the team’s full-time second right wing.
Perhaps Danton Heinen would prefer security with the Bruins. This season, the 28-year-old has checked off nearly
every box for his employer.
