The Boston Bruins, a team known for their fiscal flexibility, are poised to make some strategic moves this offseason. With a projected cap space of over $16 million and only two pending unrestricted free agents, the Bruins have the opportunity to re-sign a middle-six forward like Viktor Arvidsson while still having room to upgrade other areas of the roster. However, to truly maximize their potential, the Bruins should consider shedding some redundant contracts to free up even more spending power.
Here's a breakdown of seven players the Bruins might look to move this summer, along with personal commentary and analysis:
- Joonas Korpisalo (Goaltender)
Joonas Korpisalo, a 32-year-old veteran backup, played a crucial role in Boston's playoff push. While he's a serviceable option, the Bruins are carrying excess expenditures in goaltending, with over $11 million tied up in netminders. Moving Korpisalo could free up cap space and provide an opportunity for the team to develop Michael DiPietro, the reigning AHL MVP, as Jeremy Swayman's backup. This move could be a strategic asset management decision, even if it means attaching a sweetener to the deal.
- Henri Jokiharju (Defenseman)
Henri Jokiharju, a 26-year-old depth defenseman, has been underutilized this season. With Marco Sturm hesitant to give him an extended run, Jokiharju's $3 million cap hit seems excessive. If Andrew Peeke walks, Jokiharju could slot into a regular third-pairing spot, but his inconsistency might make him a trade chip. The Bruins could package him with a sweetener to a team in need of goaltending, freeing up cap space and potentially acquiring a more valuable asset.
- Mikey Eyssimont (Forward)
Mikey Eyssimont, a 29-year-old bottom-six forward, has been a scratch down the stretch. With a $1.45 million cap hit, he's a low-cost asset. The Bruins could flip him to a team that needs regular reps for a young forward, similar to how they traded Jeffrey Viel for a fourth-round pick. Eyssimont's low cost and potential for regular playing time make him an attractive trade chip.
- Mason Lohrei (Defenseman)
Mason Lohrei, a 25-year-old blueliner, has seen his ice time drop significantly this season. His $3.2 million cap hit could be a burden, especially if the Bruins believe he doesn't have much room to grow. Lohrei's size and playmaking ability might entice a team in need of a blueliner, but his unsteady standing with Sturm could be a concern. If the Bruins are targeting more rigidity on their blue line, Lohrei could be a potential trade chip.
- Casey Mittelstadt (Forward)
Casey Mittelstadt, a 27-year-old two-way winger, has been a steady presence in Boston. However, with Arvidsson's future uncertain and Mittelstadt entering the final year of his deal, questions arise about the sustainability of his production. His $5.75 million cap hit could be a burden, but his age, playmaking ability, and expiring contract make him an attractive trade asset. The Bruins could flip him for draft capital or as part of a package for a player with higher upside.
- Pavel Zacha (Forward)
Pavel Zacha, a 29-year-old versatile forward, had a career year with 30 goals and 65 points. The Bruins like what he brings to the ice, but his age and production could lead to a significant pay raise. With a rising NHL cap ceiling, Zacha might command at least $8 million per season on a new deal. The Bruins could retain him long-term, but they might also consider flipping him for a premium asset if they're hesitant about the pay raise or want to upgrade other areas of the roster.
- Elias Lindholm (Forward)
Elias Lindholm, a 31-year-old top-six pivot, has struggled with injuries and production. His $7.75 million cap hit and no-movement clause make him a challenging contract to move. The Bruins could try to flip him to a team in a long-term rebuild, like the Canucks, as part of a distressed asset swap. However, finding a team willing to take on Lindholm's injury concerns without significant picks and prospects might be difficult. A buyout would be painful, with a cap hit for the next 10 years, including burdensome allocations in 2029-30 and 2030-31.
In summary, the Boston Bruins have the opportunity to make some bold moves this offseason. By shedding redundant contracts, they can free up cap space and potentially upgrade their roster. These seven players could be key to the Bruins' success in the coming months, but the team must carefully consider their options and the potential returns to maximize their spending power.
