Bruins frustrated GM Don Sweeney Addresses Trade Rumors

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Hunter Bowman
July 3, 2023 (7:06 PM)

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Ever since the Boston Bruins were ousted from the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs by the Florida Panthers in April, defenseman Matt Grzelcyk has been at the center of trade speculations.

With the Bruins grappling with salary cap constraints this offseason, it was expected that some tough decisions would have to be made.

Last Monday, the Bruins made a salary cap dump by trading winger Taylor Hall and the rights to pending unrestricted free agent Nick Foligno in exchange for defensive prospects Ian Mitchell and Alec Regula.

According to multiple sources, Bruins GM Don Sweeney has also engaged in trade talks involving goaltenders Linus Ullmark and Jeremy Swayman, defensemen Brandon Carlo and Derek Forbort, and forwards Jake DeBrusk and Trent Frederic.

However, Sweeney clarified that this doesn't necessarily mean the Bruins are actively shopping these players, but rather that teams have expressed interest.

When asked specifically about the trade rumors surrounding Grzelcyk, who carries a $4.2 million salary cap hit, Sweeney voiced his frustration with the cap situation and the circulating rumors.

"I didn't start any rumors. So, you want to ask me where they came from?" Sweeney responded, expressing his exasperation. "You want to look in the mirror? Maybe you guys started them, you know, is it hypothetical that they're having conversations about players, our lineup? No. It's fact, and there's no question that I'm never going to discuss whether or not a team has called me. That's just the job. It doesn't matter who it is. That's disrespectful to a player, from my point of view, being a former player."

Sweeney emphasized Grzelcyk's versatility and ability to excel alongside Charlie McAvoy in a top-pairing role. He acknowledged the defenseman's fluctuating usage throughout the lineup and highlighted his contributions to the team's regular-season success.

While expressing well wishes for departing player Dmitry Orlov, Sweeney reaffirmed his belief in Grzelcyk's role within the Bruins' lineup and his potential for future success.

As the offseason unfolds, it remains to be seen whether the Bruins will make further moves to navigate the salary cap challenges and reshape their roster for the upcoming season.