Decisions Loom for Boston Bruins: Uncertainty Surrounds Defenseman Connor Clifton's Future
Boston Bruins GM Don Sweeney faces tough decisions in the ongoing 2023 off-season.
With the draft and free agency approaching, he must deal with restricted and unrestricted free agents to comply with the salary cap for the upcoming 2023-34 NHL season.
While minor contracts are secured, priority lies in re-signing Jeremy Swayman and exploring options for Tyler Bertuzzi. The future of defenseman Connor Clifton is uncertain�is he staying or leaving?
Clifton, though not a star, plays a physical game that epitomizes Bruins hockey. He carved a role as a third-pair defenseman, thriving under coach Jim Montgomery. Last season, he showcased growth, setting career highs in production, hits, and offensive contribution.
Defensively, Clifton sacrificed his body but had some vulnerable moments, impacting expected goals and conceding goals alongside Derek Forbort. The Bruins' blueline is crowded, making Clifton's retention unlikely.
To address the salary cap, buying out Mike Reilly and parting ways with Matt Grzelcyk and Derek Forbort are possible. With core defensemen like Charlie McAvoy, Hampus Lindholm, and Brandon Carlo, Clifton may have to seek a new team unless a discounted deal is negotiated.
In summary, Sweeney faces difficult choices amidst salary cap constraints, making Clifton's future uncertain in the Bruins organization.
So the question looms, does Sweeney let Clifton walk or does he give him an extension?
Source: Blackngoldhockey
| POLL | ||
Would you be okay with Clifton walking? | ||
| Yes | 84 | 67.2 % |
| No | 41 | 32.8 % |
| List of polls | ||
