A potential trade between the Blackhawks and Bruins has been hinted at by a Bruins insider
After the holiday roster freeze ends at 12:01 a.m. EST on Thursday, the Boston Bruins might discover a potential answer to their increasing need for added talent at the center position. A reliable insider in the NHL's executive circle has revealed to Boston Hockey Now that the Chicago Blackhawks are willing to trade center Tyler Johnson. The 33-year-old, 5-foot-8, 185-pound center is in the final season of a seven-year, $35 million contract. According to Puckpedia, Johnson has used $2,005,209 of his $5 million salary cap this season and has amassed seven goals with four assists in 34 games.
Tyler Johnson became a member of the Chicago Blackhawks in 2021 following consecutive Stanley Cup victories with the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2020 and 2021. In the exchange, the Blackhawks also received a 2023 second-round draft pick. Despite facing initial injury setbacks in Chicago, Johnson has exhibited glimpses of his former self, concluding the previous season with 12 goals and 20 assists in 56 games. His most remarkable NHL season was in 2014-15, netting 29 goals and contributing 43 assists in 73 games, aiding the Lightning in reaching the 2015 Stanley Cup Final.
Regarding trade rumors, the Boston Bruins have often been linked with Calgary Flames center Elias Lindholm. However, recent reports hint at a potential trade involving Lindholm nearer to the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline. NHL insider Pierre LeBrun, on 'TSN Insider Trading,' connected the Bruins to Lindholm, highlighting the team's necessity for a defensively skilled right-handed center following Patrice Bergeron's departure.
LeBrun also underscored the obstacles facing the Boston Bruins in acquiring Lindholm, citing their absence of a 2024 first-round pick due to last year's Tyler Bertuzzi trade. The competition for Lindholm's services is intense, with the Colorado Avalanche expressing interest. Furthermore, lacking a 2024 second or third-round pick, the Bruins face additional challenges in competing with other potential suitors unless the Flames consider future picks.
While Tyler Johnson may not fit the top-six center role anymore, some ponder whether his history of Stanley Cup success and seasoned experience could present an alternative option for the Bruins. However, concerns about his stature and current performance in his career stage raise uncertainties about his suitability for the team's requirements. Nonetheless, it remains to be observed how the Bruins will navigate the trade landscape and address their center position in the forthcoming weeks.
| POLL | ||
26 DECEMBRE | 329 ANSWERS A potential trade between the Blackhawks and Bruins has been hinted at by a Bruins insider Do you believe the Bruins are inclined to make a trade involving Johnson? | ||
| Yes | 107 | 32.5 % |
| No | 222 | 67.5 % |
| List of polls | ||
