The Bruins Could Be In Trouble: Don Sweeney Failed Them
The Boston Bruins headed into the 2023-24 season with a roster marked by significant changes, as General Manager Don Sweeney promised after their remarkable 2022-23 campaign.
The departures of franchise stalwarts Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci, along with other players leaving through free agency and trades, have reshaped the Black and Gold. As the dust settles on the 2023 offseason, it's time to evaluate Sweeney's summer moves.
Cap Space Cleared: Hall and Foligno Traded to Chicago
Sweeney began by creating much-needed cap space, trading Taylor Hall and Nick Foligno's unrestricted free agent rights to the Chicago Blackhawks. This move, unloading Hall's $6 million AAV, was crucial. Surprisingly, no further contracts were moved, leaving options like Matt Grzelcyk, Derek Forbort, Jake DeBrusk, and Linus Ullmark intact, at least for now.
Draft Picks and Youth Development
The Bruins entered the 2023 NHL Entry Draft without a first-round pick, traded earlier to the Washington Capitals. Despite this, they made five selections on the second day in Nashville. Notable picks include center Chris Pelosi and center Beckett Hendrickson, emphasizing the Bruins' focus on youth development.
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Free Agency: A Mix of Experience and Wild Cards
Sweeney's free agency strategy aimed to add experience while potentially integrating youth into the lineup. Notable signings include the return of Milan Lucic, James van Riemsdyk, Patrick Brown, and Morgan Geekie. Kevin Shattenkirk joined as Connor Clifton's replacement, while Jesper Boqvist, Alex Chiasson, and Danton Heinen are intriguing additions. Sweeney's focus on one-year deals positions the Bruins well for future cap space in 2024.
No Major Trades, Goaltenders Retained
With Bergeron and Krejci retired, Pavel Zacha and Charlie Coyle appear poised to step in. However, questions loom over their ability to handle full-season roles. Long-term replacements likely lie outside the organization, possibly through trades. The Bruins opted to keep both goaltenders, Linus Ullmark and Jeremy Swayman, despite a combined cost of nearly $8.5 million this season.
In summary, the Bruins' offseason reflects a bridge year to maintain competitiveness in the Atlantic Division and Eastern Conference.
While not without its changes and new signings, the team faces significant questions about its future. The grade for Sweeney's summer of change lands at a respectable C+.
