The Next Players That Could Be Traded From The Bruins

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Hunter Bowman
June 29, 2023 (11:09 PM)

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The Boston Bruins wasted no time in making their first significant move of the 2023 NHL Offseason, as they executed a salary dump trade involving Taylor Hall and Nick Foligno's unrestricted free agent rights.

In return, the Bruins acquired right-shot defensemen Ian Mitchell and Alec Regula from the Chicago Blackhawks. This trade not only provides Boston with defensive reinforcements but also clears approximately $11 million in salary cap space, allowing them flexibility to address other roster needs.

However, despite creating cap space, the Bruins still have several free agents, both unrestricted and restricted, and will likely need to shed more salary. As a result, there are several players on the team who could find themselves on the trading block.

One name that has surfaced in trade rumors is Derek Forbort, a left-shot defenseman. With an abundance of left-shot defensemen on the roster, it wouldn't be surprising if Forbort becomes a trade candidate this offseason.

Although he had a solid season, contributing five goals and 12 points, Forbort's expiring contract and $3 million cap hit make him a potentially expendable asset for the Bruins. The team could explore cheaper options in free agency to fill his role.

Another defenseman to keep an eye on is Mike Reilly, who has been on the trade radar since last season. After a short stint with the NHL club, Reilly was sent down to the AHL, and a trade might be the best solution for both parties.

While Reilly's higher cap hit could diminish his trade value, rebuilding teams in need of defensive depth might be willing to take him on, potentially in exchange for a draft pick.

Matt Grzelcyk, a Massachusetts native, is another player who could be moved by the Bruins. With more trade value than Forbort and Reilly, Grzelcyk's higher cap hit of $3,687,500 and contract status could make him an attractive asset for teams seeking a reliable two-way defenseman.

The Bruins might consider trading him rather than risk losing him for nothing in free agency next year.

There are also speculations surrounding winger Jake DeBrusk, who will enter the final year of his contract. While not as frequently mentioned in trade rumors, DeBrusk's future in Boston remains uncertain.

His impressive performance last season, with 27 goals and 50 points, enhances his trade value, but his chemistry with linemates Patrice Bergeron and Brad Marchand could influence the team's decision. If Bergeron decides to retire, the Bruins may explore moving DeBrusk to acquire a top-six center.

Finally, the most significant trade candidate for the Bruins is goaltender Linus Ullmark. Despite being the reigning Vezina Trophy and Jennings Trophy winner, Ullmark's name has been circulating in trade talks.

With promising netminder Jeremy Swayman expected to be the team's long-term solution, Ullmark's $5 million cap hit and strong performance create a favorable trade opportunity for the Bruins.

As the offseason progresses, the Bruins' front office is actively seeking ways to optimize their roster and address their cap constraints. The trade involving Hall and Foligno is just the beginning, with more moves likely to follow.

It remains to be seen which players among Derek Forbort, Mike Reilly, Matt Grzelcyk, Jake DeBrusk, and Linus Ullmark will ultimately find new homes as the Bruins reshape their roster for the upcoming season.