Three players the Bruins shouldn't trade
The Boston Bruins are facing a significant offseason of change following a memorable regular season that ended in a disappointing playoff collapse. With several unrestricted free agents (UFA) and restricted free agents (RFA) likely not returning, as well as uncertainties surrounding the futures of Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci, General Manager Don Sweeney has acknowledged that the team will have a different look in the upcoming season.
Adding to the challenge is the Bruins' tight salary cap situation, leaving little room to re-sign key free agents or retain trade deadline acquisitions like Dmitry Orlov, Garnet Hathaway, and Tyler Bertuzzi. Sweeney will need to make tough decisions and potentially trade players under contract to create salary cap space for the upcoming season. However, there are three players who should be considered untouchable by the Bruins' GM and remain with the team in 2023-24.
Jake DeBrusk has thrived since his trade request became public, showcasing his potential on the first line with Bergeron and Brad Marchand. At just 26 years old and with a $4 million average annual value (AAV) for one more season, DeBrusk represents a valuable asset for the Bruins.
Linus Ullmark and Jeremy Swayman formed a formidable goaltending duo, winning the William M. Jennings Trophy for allowing the fewest goals in the league. Ullmark, in particular, had a career season and is a strong contender for the Vezina Trophy. The Bruins should aim to retain this successful goaltending tandem and prioritize re-signing Swayman.
Brandon Carlo, a 6-foot-5 defenseman, may often be mentioned in trade discussions among Bruins fans, but his value to the team should not be overlooked. He excels as a stay-at-home defenseman and is a reliable penalty killer. Partnering him with an offensive defenseman like Hampus Lindholm could solidify the Bruins' defensive core moving forward.
While changes are inevitable for the Bruins this offseason, these three players should be regarded as vital components of the team's future. The summer will undoubtedly bring challenges, but Sweeney must carefully navigate the salary cap constraints to preserve the core strength of the Bruins while making strategic roster adjustments.
Source: Thehockeywriters
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