Could the Boston Bruins make a major trade with a division rival team?

The Bruins, actively seeking to strengthen their lineup, are rumored to be in the hunt for a top-tier center, but they are also considering bolstering their middle-six forward group, including centers and wingers. In a recent episode of TSN Insider Trading, Darren Dreger discussed the Montreal Canadiens' interest in trading forward Sean Monahan, who is approaching unrestricted free agency in 2024 and currently has a one-year contract worth $1.98 million. The Bruins have been mentioned as one of the interested teams for the 29-year-old forward.

Dreger commented,

He pointed out that the Bruins, along with the Colorado Avalanche, Edmonton Oilers, and Washington Capitals, are actively seeking potential additions as the trade deadline approaches.

Monahan, who is in good health and performing well this season with 11 goals and 13 assists in 41 games, reportedly had an understanding with the Canadiens in the offseason that they would trade him to a contender or a team of his choosing at the appropriate time.

As the Bruins conclude a tough four-game road stretch against the Blues in St. Louis, injuries to crucial players like goalie Linus Ullmark, defenseman Brandon Carlo, and rookie center Matthew Poitras have heightened their need for more depth. With Carlo on injured reserve and both Ullmark and Poitras likely missing the next game, the Bruins might look to strengthen their lineup, especially in the middle-six positions.

The opportunity to bring in Monahan, a 6-foot-2, 220-pound forward with a strong performance history, matches well with the Bruins' current requirements. Despite the long-standing rivalry between the Bruins and Canadiens, the changing nature of sports today makes such inter-team trades more viable.

As the trade deadline nears, the Bruins are at a crucial juncture, needing to address their roster issues and explore potential acquisitions to boost their standing in the league.