Insider States The Bruins Are Exploring Options On How They Can Keep Top UFA

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Austin Sabourin
June 3, 2023 (7:52)

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In a recent report, it was revealed that the Boston Bruins are actively exploring their options to retain Tyler Bertuzzi, a promising winger set to become an unrestricted free agent this summer. Elliotte Friedman, a respected insider in the NHL, shared this insight in a concise segment of his column, titled "32 Thoughts."

While it's not entirely surprising that the Bruins are keen on extending Bertuzzi's contract and keeping him as a valued member of their team for the long haul, the significance lies in the fact that such a reputable NHL insider dropped this information. With less than a month remaining until NHL free agency commences, the buzz surrounding free agents and the accompanying rumors are expected to intensify.

This marks the first time in Bertuzzi's NHL career, at the age of 28, that he will have the opportunity to explore the unrestricted free agent market. Various projections from NHL insiders and salary cap analysis websites estimate that Bertuzzi's contract could range anywhere between $4.2 million to $5.2 million per season, considering the anticipated salary cap of $83.5 million for the upcoming season. However, it is worth noting that the projected increase in the 2023-24 NHL salary cap, as initially indicated by NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman prior to the start of the 2022-23 NHL regular season, has since been revised to $83.5 million.

During a media availability session on May 9, Boston Bruins general manager Don Sweeney acknowledged the challenges associated with retaining Bertuzzi, as well as defenseman Dmitry Orlov and Garnet Hathaway, two other players acquired by the team at the NHL Trade Deadline. Sweeney emphasized the financial constraints imposed by the impending salary cap situation, describing it as a difficult predicament for the organization.

"I couldn't simply commit to signing those players outright," Sweeney remarked when asked about the three impending unrestricted free agents acquired at the trade deadline. "Our cap situation is a factor that we must consider, particularly with our overage standing at $4.5 million. Like several other teams in the league, we have certain limitations. Our objective was to assemble the most formidable roster possible to make a legitimate run, but unfortunately, we fell short."

Source - Bostonhockeynow