Controversial list of the Boston Bruins top 3 worst contracts
As the 2023-24 season approaches, the Boston Bruins find themselves navigating a tight cap space situation, even after parting ways with several players through trades and free agency.
The challenge arises partly from contracts that might not align perfectly with the players' roles and market values. Here, we'll delve into three contracts that could be considered as the Bruins' less favorable ones heading into the upcoming campaign.
Jakub Zboril's contract might not be a glaring issue, but his $1,137,500 cap hit could be deemed slightly high for his role as an extra defenseman. In the previous season, he served as a depth blueliner, and this trend is expected to continue.
However, Zboril's impact during 2022-23 was rather limited, with just one goal, four points, and a minus-1 rating in 22 games played. While he has provided serviceable depth, the Bruins possess more economical options for that role. Among them are Ian Mitchell, Alec Regula, Parker Wotherspoon, and especially top prospect Mason Lohrei.
Given the tight cap space, Zboril's contract might not be the most advantageous. Coupled with the Bruins' increased defensive depth, it could even lead to him missing the roster after training camp.
Charlie Coyle's contract stands out as one of the less favorable deals for the 2023-24 season. Carrying a $5.25 million cap hit until the end of 2025-26, it seems substantial for a third-line center.
Additionally, Coyle's no-movement clause (NMC) and limited no-trade list further complicate any potential trade efforts. The Bruins' pursuit of a top-six center to fill Bergeron's shoes is hindered by such a hefty contract for a third-liner. However, there's a silver lining. Coyle has solidified his position as a top third-line center in the NHL over the past couple of seasons.
His contributions extend beyond offense, encompassing a steady defensive game and vital penalty killing. Last season, he put up impressive numbers with 16 goals, 45 points, and a plus-29 rating in 82 games. These figures have softened the blow of his higher cap hit, especially as he's potentially stepping into a more impactful role as a top-six center for the Bruins.
Derek Forbort's contract has garnered attention due to trade rumors, largely due to its implications on the cap. Investing $3 million in a bottom-pairing defenseman is a costly commitment, making Forbort a plausible candidate for a cap clearing move.
The Bruins have other left-shot defensemen like Lohrei, who could present cheaper alternatives for the bottom pairing. Despite his relatively high cap hit for his role, Forbort has been an integral part of the Bruins' blue line.
He had a strong showing last season, registering career-highs with five goals, 12 points, 106 hits, and a plus-12 rating. Notably, he played a significant role on the penalty kill.
While he contributes effectively, the financial implications, combined with the Bruins' constrained cap space and other pressing needs, make his contract somewhat challenging to manage.
While these contracts may not be the Bruins' most ideal, they don't necessarily fall into the realm of disastrous deals. Zboril's cap hit is reasonable, and both Coyle and Forbort continue to offer value despite their relative cost.
The 2023-24 season will shed light on how this trio navigates their roles and impacts the team's performance.
Source: Thehockeywriters
| POLL | ||
Do you agree that the Bruins contracts for Zboril, Coyle, and Forbort could be considered as less favorable heading into the 2023-24 season? | ||
| Yes | 18 | 54.5 % |
| No | 15 | 45.5 % |
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