Boston's Young Core Set to Keep Them Contending For Years

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Dorin Canaday
March 20, 2023 (7:40)

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Despite the uncertainty around some players' futures in the NHL, the Bruins still have a strong core to build around, if needed.

Boston has been one of the most consistent contenders in the league, as they've been a top team in over the past 10 or so seasons. Next to teams like the Blackhawks, Kings, Penguins, and Lightning.

A New Era of the Boston Bruins

Core players from those Bruins teams in the 2010s like Zdeno Chara, Adam McQuaid and Tuukka Rask have since retired. There's also not knowing what the future holds for Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci, Don Sweeney could have some massive decisions to make.

As stated above, however, Boston is riddled with younger talent that has proven to be NHL stars themselves. Players that Sweeney can trust to take over the leadership of this team.

Below is the under-30 core that has the potential of keeping the Bruins afloat (year contract expires):

- David Pastrnak (2031)
- Charlie McAvoy (2030)
- Hampus Lindholm (2030)
- Pavel Zacha (2028)
- Brandon Carlo (2028)
- Jake Debrusk (2025)
- Jeremy Swayman (RFA this summer)

Taylor Hall (31) is signed until the end of the 2024-25 season, along with Linus Ullmark (29), who's signed through 2025-26.

Another guy that Sweeney should do what he can extend is newly acquired Tyler Bertuzzi, especially if one or both Krejci and Bergeron leave. The 28-year-old is a UFA after this season.

Of course, the team and us fans are focused on the special season the Bruins are having. There's one thing that's the most important for the black and gold and that's the Stanley Cup.