As NHL teams make roster cuts during their training camps, management and coaching staff are assessing their needs for the upcoming 2023-24 season. They're also considering potential trades to create necessary cap space before the new season begins.
A Northeast-based NHL pro scout shared insights, saying, "Chatter is picking up more as I scout preseason games here. Teams are starting to see if maybe they have a young player that can make the jump or eat up more minutes."
In his NHL preseason debut, 21-year-old Bruins rookie defenseman Mason Lohrei made a strong impression. He logged an impressive 29:01 minutes of ice time, including powerplay and penalty kill shifts, and picked up an assist on the Bruins' lone goal in a 4-1 loss to the Buffalo Sabres.
With Lohrei showcasing his potential, questions arise about whether the Boston Bruins might explore the NHL trade market to create cap space by moving 29-year-old defenseman Matt Grzelcyk, who is in the final year of his contract with a $3.6 million salary cap hit. The scout noted Grzelcyk's value, suggesting the Bruins could reach out to teams like the Chicago Blackhawks, who have cap space and a need for a player of Grzelcyk's caliber.
Additionally, the possibility of facing former teammates Nick Foligno, Taylor Hall, and Grzelcyk on Oct. 11 when the Bruins open their season against the Blackhawks adds intrigue to the situation.
If emerging talents like Lohrei and others push their way onto the roster, Bruins' General Manager Don Sweeney may be more inclined to explore the NHL trade market to free up cap space.
As seen on bostonhockeynow
POLL | ||
Would you be okay with the Bruins trading Grezlcyk? | ||
Yes | 0 | 0 % |
No | 0 | 0 % |
List of polls |