NHL Rumours: 5 Boston Bruins Players On The Trade Block, Cap Space Issues
As I'm sure you're aware, the Boston Bruins are facing a significant challenge with their cap space this summer. They've incurred a $4.5 million overage penalty due to bonuses owed to Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci. As a result, the Bruins have very limited room to maneuver within their roster, especially since they have already committed $75 million to the salaries of 20 players. This means that trades will be necessary, regardless of fans' preferences.
Considering these circumstances, let's take a closer look at five Bruins players who might be up for grabs, indicating that the team may be open to dealing them:
Jeremy Swayman & Linus Ullmark
Jeremy Swayman, a restricted free agent, has performed admirably in his three seasons with the Bruins. According to Fluto Shinzawa of The Athletic, he is in line to earn around $4 million per year on a new contract. The question is whether the Bruins can realistically afford this expense or if they should consider trading him. This brings us to Linus Ullmark, the team's number one goaltender and a strong contender for the Vezina Trophy this year. However, Ullmark, who will turn 30 next season, didn't perform at his best during the Bruins' disappointing first-round playoff exit. He is set to earn $5 million in the upcoming season, which is the third year of his four-year contract. So, should the Bruins opt for the slightly cheaper and much younger (24-year-old) Swayman and trade Ullmark while his value is high after an outstanding season? At this point, the answer seems to lean towards yes.
Verdict: Swayman - STAY | Ullmark - GO
Matt Grzelcyk
Grzelcyk is an excellent defensive defenseman who finished second in the NHL in plus-minus rating this season, boasting an impressive +46. Other teams have taken notice of his skills, but his lack of size prevented him from featuring in the playoffs this year. However, he would undoubtedly be a valuable asset on any other team. Trade rumors are already swirling between Boston and Edmonton, with the possibility of a trade involving Ryan Nugent-Hopkins for Matt Grzelcyk, as per a source cited by Jimmy Murphy.
Jake DeBrusk
DeBrusk, who initially expressed a desire to leave Boston and requested a trade in 2022, eventually withdrew his request. However, he finds himself on the trading block now. He is entering the final year of his contract, earning $4 million. According to Shinzawa, it's uncertain whether he would warrant a long-term investment after this season. Regardless, he could fetch a decent return on the trade market.
Hall, with a $6 million average annual value, will be 32 years old at the start of next season. His performance does not justify his contract, especially considering the Bruins' tight salary cap situation. The presence of his partial no-trade clause could complicate matters, though.
| POLL | ||
28 MAI | 40 ANSWERS NHL Rumours: 5 Boston Bruins Players On The Trade Block, Cap Space Issues Who would you prefer? | ||
| Ullmark | 7 | 17.5 % |
| Swayman | 33 | 82.5 % |
| List of polls | ||
