The Boston Bruins, a team known for their strategic moves, are poised to make some significant changes this offseason. With a projected cap space of over $16 million, the Bruins have the financial flexibility to re-sign key players like Viktor Arvidsson and Andrew Peeke. However, to enhance their roster and explore more ambitious endeavors, the Bruins are likely to shed a few redundant contracts. Here's an in-depth look at seven contracts the Bruins might consider unloading, along with personal commentary and analysis.
Goaltending: The Case for Joonas Korpisalo
Joonas Korpisalo, a 32-year-old veteran backup, played a crucial role in the Bruins' playoff push in March. While he is a serviceable option in the NHL, the Bruins are carrying excess expenditures in goaltending, with over $11 million tied up in this position. In my opinion, the Bruins should consider trading Korpisalo to a team in need of goaltending, freeing up cap space. This move could also provide an opportunity for Michael DiPietro, the reigning AHL MVP, to step in as Jeremy Swayman's backup. It's a prudent asset management strategy, but the Bruins might need to attach a sweetener to the deal.
Depth Defense: The Henri Jokiharju Dilemma
Henri Jokiharju, a 26-year-old depth defenseman, has been underutilized this season, playing only 41 games. With Marco Sturm's hesitancy to give him an extended run, the Bruins might consider trading Jokiharju to a team that can slot him into a regular third-pairing spot. However, his issues with consistency could make him a liability, and the Bruins should be cautious in their approach. This move could also free up cap space and provide an opportunity for younger players to step up.
Bottom-Six Forward: The Case for Mikey Eyssimont
Mikey Eyssimont, a 29-year-old bottom-six forward, has been a scratch down the stretch for Sturm. With the Bruins' bottom-six grouping already full of established NHLers, Eyssimont could be flipped to a team that can carve out regular reps for him. This move could also yield a low draft pick, similar to the Bruins' trade of Jeffrey Viel to Anaheim earlier this year. It's a strategic move to free up cap space and provide an opportunity for younger players to step up.
Blueliner: The Mason Lohrei Opportunity
Mason Lohrei, a 25-year-old blueliner, has held some value to teams due to his size and playmaking ability. However, his standing with Sturm might be unsteady, with his ice time dropping from 19:32 per game in 2024-25 to 16:54 this past season. If the Bruins believe that Lohrei doesn't have more room to grow, they could trade him to a team targeting more rigidity on their blue line or more upside elsewhere on the roster. This move could also free up cap space and provide an opportunity for younger players to step up.
Two-Way Winger: The Case for Casey Mittelstadt
Casey Mittelstadt, a 27-year-old two-way winger, has been a steady presence in Boston under Sturm's watch. However, with Arvidsson's future in flux and Mittelstadt entering the final year of his deal, questions remain over the sustainability of his production. In my opinion, the Bruins should consider trading Mittelstadt for draft capital or as part of a package for a player with higher upside. This move could also free up cap space and provide an opportunity for younger players to step up.
Versatile Forward: The Pavel Zacha Option
Pavel Zacha, a 29-year-old forward, is a versatile player coming off a career year. If the Bruins want to re-up Zacha on a long-term deal, they should be prepared to pay a significant amount. However, with the rising NHL cap ceiling, it's possible that Zacha could command at least $8 million per season on a new deal. The Bruins should consider trading Zacha if they're hesitant about handing over such a sizable pay raise or if they think they can upgrade their roster by flipping him for a premium asset.
Top-Six Pivot: The Elias Lindholm Conundrum
Elias Lindholm, a 31-year-old top-six pivot, has not lived up to his billing in Boston. Despite making inroads on the power play, Lindholm's back injury has sapped his skating burst. In my opinion, the Bruins should consider trading Lindholm to a team in need of a long-term rebuild, like the Canucks, as part of a swap of distressed assets. However, the Bruins should be cautious in their approach due to Lindholm's no-movement clause and injury concerns. A pure buyout would also be painful for the Bruins, as it would take a cap hit for the next 10 years.
In conclusion, the Boston Bruins have the financial flexibility to make significant changes this offseason. By shedding redundant contracts, they can enhance their roster and explore more ambitious endeavors. However, the Bruins should be strategic in their approach, considering the implications of each move and the potential opportunities for younger players to step up. It's a challenging task, but with the right strategy, the Bruins can build a competitive roster for the upcoming season.
