Will the Boston Bruins remain active on the trade market ahead of Monday's deadline after adding a much-needed defenseman to the group over the weekend?
Speaking with the media on Sunday following the acquisition of blue liner Hampus Lindholm from the Anaheim Ducks, Bruins general manager Don Sweeney said that the team is still looking at "every possible situation" to add to the group it has.
"Obviously we've given up future assets that affect decision making where I sit today," Sweeney said. "But we're still going to continue to look and see if we can improve our team. We're comfortable with where our team is at and how they're playing, injuries aside. I want to continue to explore it."
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SIGN UP HERE Boston gave up its first-round draft pick in 2022, second-round picks in both 2023 and 2024 and defensemen Urho Vaakanainen and John Moore in the deal for Lindholm, but could still use its 2023 first rounder or second rounder this year in a potential deal. The Bruins still don't have a great prospect pool as far as potential trade assets go, but could still dangle Jake DeBrusk -- something Sweeney addressed on Sunday, as DeBrusk's request for a trade doesn't seem to have changed.
"I don't think Jake has changed his opinion, but that doesn't mean it happens," Sweeney said. "If I can make it fit for the Boston Bruins and our team -- Jake's helping our team -- so I'd certainly only do it if it will help our team."
DeBrusk has 26 points (15 goals, 11 assists) in 57 games this season and can be a restricted free agent this summer.
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One player the Bruins won't be adding: David Krejci, whom Sweeney confirmed Sunday was staying in his native Czech Republic.
Moves are beginning to fly fast and furious across the NHL, the Atlantic Division no exception. Less than a day after the Bruins made their move for Lindholm, the Maple Leafs have reportedly acquired blue liner Mark Giordano.
Boston is a point ahead of the Washington Capitals as the top wild-card in the Eastern Conference playoff picture through Sunday and 14 points clear of the Columbus Blue Jackets, currently the first team on the outside looking in. But if the Bruins want to make any sort of run in the postseason, Sweeney and Co. shouldn't stop at Lindholm -- the team could definitely use another boost up front, especially as Patrice Bergeron was ruled out for at least one more game with an arm injury.
