Are the Bruins looking to target players before the trade?

By Emily Champagne

Currently mired in a 4-4-5 slump since February’s All Star Weekend, the Boston Bruins are in the market to add a physical blueliner to their squad.

While Coach Sweeney could opt to sell off his assets for a variety of prospects or draft capital, he also could use the space to shake up a roster that is starting to stalemate through incorporating younger talent. This decision has the potential to lead the team towards more dynamic plays and competitiveness within the league.

Ever since Boston’s losing streak has moved the team to second place within the Atlantic Division, many fans see that their blue line might be the most crucial to fix within depth charts. As a result, there are 8 different defensemen that the Bruins have their eyes on.

Noah Hanifin from the Calgary Flames sits atop Sweeneys list this year as he could elevate the Bruins defensive line and serve as a foundational piece moving forward. The 27 year old is a pending free agent and due to his puck moving capabilities, sturdy frame, and ability to shoot, it would greatly benefit the Bruins. If the Bruins were able to add him to their roster, they could be argued to have one of the best four groupings within the NHL, joining Charlie McAvoy, Brandon Carlo, and Hampus Lindholm. However to secure him comes with some great costs: a 4.95 million cap hit and the loss of a 2025 first round pick.

If the Bruins decide to miss the opportunity, Jake Middleton from the Minnesota Wild is also a great candidate. The 28 year old closes around 20 minutes of ice time per game, can kill penalties against top rated goaltenders, has 20 points in 61 games, and can play a physical game. Middleton could serve as much needed help in regards to the Bruins struggle against clearing the netfront.

While Middleton and Hanifin top the Bruins’s initial list, Washington Capital Joel Edmundson, Philadelphia Flyer Nick Seeler, Nashville Predator Alexandre Carrier, Arizona Coyote Matt Dumba, and Seattle Kraken Brian Dumoulin and Jamie Oleksiak could also make an impressive impact on the Bruins.

Although nothing is official, we cannot wait to see what Sweeney and the team decide to do heading into the trade deadline weekend.